Brownie Caramel Cheesecake: A Decadent Dessert You Can’t Resist

Imagine combining a brownie’s fudgy richness, a cheesecake’s creamy smoothness, and the sweet, sticky goodness of caramel into one ultimate dessert and introducing the Brownie Caramel Cheesecake, a showstopping treat perfect for any occasion—a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or simply a night in with your favorite dessert.

This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s not hard to see why. With layers of the dense brownie base, luscious caramel filling, and velvety cheesecake, all topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce, this treat offers a medley of textures and flavors that dance in perfect harmony. Each bite will leave you wanting more, and the best part is—it’s easier to make than you might think! Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a jaw-dropping dessert that’ll impress everyone.

Brownie Caramel Cheesecake

This rich, decadent dessert combines a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake filling, and indulgent caramel topping. It is perfect for special occasions or when craving something genuinely luxurious.

Ingredients

Brownie Layer:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder

Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for thinning, optional)

Toppings:

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
• Chocolate shavings (optional)
• Sea salt (optional for a salted caramel twist)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 40g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Decadent: This dessert layers brownie, cheesecake, and caramel for the ultimate indulgence.
2. Impressively Elegant: Perfect for special occasions like holidays or dinner parties, this showstopping dessert will leave everyone in awe.
3. Versatile: You can make this ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Plus, it can be customized with various toppings or flavor twists.
4. Sweet and Salty Option: Sprinkle sea salt on top for a delicious contrast between the sweet caramel and the salty finish.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is the base of any cheesecake, giving the cake its creamy texture. Use full-fat cream cheese for the most decadent flavor. You can substitute with reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, though the texture may differ slightly.
• Brownie Base: This adds a fudgy, chocolatey layer that pairs perfectly with the smooth cheesecake. If you’re short on time, use a boxed brownie mix or stick to the homemade brownie recipe above for the best results.
• Caramel Sauce: The caramel layer adds sweetness and depth. You can use store-bought caramel sauce, but homemade caramel provides a richer, more luxurious flavor.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream in the cheesecake layer adds a tangy flavor and smooth texture. For a slightly healthier option, you can substitute Greek yoghurt.

How to Make Brownie Caramel Cheesecake (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
2. This forms the base of the cheesecake and adds a chocolatey, fudgy foundation. Start by melting the butter and combining it with sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Then, whisk in the dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Bake the brownie layer until it’s just set but still gooey inside, as it will finish cooking when you bake the cheesecake layer.
3. Create the Cheesecake Batter:
4. Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and sour cream combine with the creamy filling. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the batter.
5. Add the Caramel:
6. Drizzle the caramel over the cheesecake layer before baking for a beautiful marbled effect, or save it for the top after baking for an extra indulgent finish. The caramel adds a rich sweetness that balances the tangy cheesecake.
7. Bake in a Water Bath:
8. To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, bake it in a water bath. Simply place the springform pan in a larger pan and fill the outer pan with hot water. This creates steam, which helps the cheesecake bake more evenly and gently.
9. Chill and Serve:
10. Once the cheesecake is baked and cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the cake to set correctly.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
2. Avoid Over-Mixing: Once the eggs are added to the cheesecake batter, mix until combined. Over-mixing can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
3. Water Bath for Even Baking: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures the cheesecake bakes evenly, creating a smooth, silky texture.
4. Chill Completely: Don’t rush the chilling process. Letting the cheesecake chill for several hours or overnight is crucial in setting the layers and enhancing the flavors.

Variations and Customizations

• Salted Caramel Cheesecake: Sprinkle sea salt on the caramel layer and top with flaky salt for a salty-sweet flavor.
• Peanut Butter Brownie Cheesecake: Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel for a nutty twist that pairs perfectly with the chocolate brownie base.
• Chocolate Ganache Topping: For extra indulgence, top the cheesecake with a layer of chocolate ganache before serving.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, use a gluten-free brownie mix or substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Brownie caramel cheesecake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover the cheesecake to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: This dessert freezes beautifully! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: While cheesecake is best served chilled, if you prefer a slightly warm dessert, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light contrast to the rich cheesecake.
• Pair with Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries complements the sweetness of the caramel and brownie layers.
• Add Ice Cream: For an even more indulgent dessert, serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
2. Yes! This cheesecake tastes better the next day as the flavours have time to meld together. You can make it up to 2 days in advance.
3. Do I need a water bath to bake the cheesecake?
4. While a water bath is optional, it helps the cheesecake bake more evenly and reduces the risk of cracks.
5. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
6. Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Related Recipes

• Salted Caramel Cheesecake: If you love caramel, you’ll adore this version that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavours.
• Chocolate Lava Cake: For the ultimate chocolate fix, try this ooey-gooey chocolate dessert that’s sure to impress.
• Turtle Brownies: These decadent brownies are topped with caramel, pecans, and chocolate drizzle for a delightful sweet treat.

Conclusion

Brownie Caramel Cheesecake is the perfect indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds—rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake with an irresistible caramel layer. Whether making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dessert will satisfy your sweet tooth. So why not try it and experience the ultimate dessert for yourself?

German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Brownie Caramel Cheesecake

A rich, decadent dessert combining a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake filling, and indulgent caramel topping. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you're craving something truly luxurious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 people

Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients

  

Brownie Layer

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powde
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp baking powder

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼¼ cup sour cream

Caramel Layer

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (for thinning, optional)

Toppings

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
• Chocolate shavings (optional)
• Sea salt (optional, for a salted caramel twist)

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Brownie Layer:

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until just combined.Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the brownie is set but not fully cooked (it will finish baking with the cheesecake layer).Set aside to cool slightly.
• Make the Cheesecake Layer:

  In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream.Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie layer and spread evenly.
• Add the Caramel Layer:

  Gently drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Swirl it in with a knife for a marbled effect or leave it as a layer.Place the springform pan in a water bath (optional but recommended for even baking) and bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
• Chill and Serve:

  Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open for 15 minutes to cool gradually.Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Before serving, drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and garnish with chocolate shavings or sea salt if desired.

Notes

• For homemade caramel sauce, combine 1 cup sugar with 1/4 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown, then stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
• Let the cheesecake cool thoroughly before removing it from the springform pan to prevent cracking.

Keyword Brownie Caramel Cheesecake