Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a luscious dessert combining a fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer, all topped with rich caramel sauce and chocolate drizzle. It offers a decadent combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy chocolate and caramel lovers alike, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat.
- Author: Douaa
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Brownie Base
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 24 ounces (675 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
Caramel Sauce (Homemade, optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Garnish
- Chocolate drizzle or ganache
- Crushed pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Swirls of whipped cream
- Extra caramel drizzle
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently stir in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just incorporated. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. Blend in sour cream, vanilla extract, and caramel sauce until the mixture is velvety and fully combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled brownie layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan and carefully pour hot water into the outer pan to a depth of about one inch, creating a water bath that will help the cheesecake bake evenly and prevent cracking.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the cheesecake’s center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. After resting, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 to 5 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce (if making homemade): In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add cubed butter and stir until melted in. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously (be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously). Remove from heat, stir in a pinch of salt, and let cool slightly before using.
- Decorate the Cheesecake: After chilling, gently drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Add chocolate drizzle or ganache, swirls of whipped cream, and sprinkle crushed nuts if desired for an elegant finish.
- Serve: Use a warm knife for clean slices. Enjoy the harmonious blend of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and luscious caramel in each bite.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth cheesecake texture.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- The water bath helps prevent cracks and creates a creamy consistency.
- Use a warm knife between slices to achieve clean cuts.
- Caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade for freshness.
- Optional nuts add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and firmness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: Caramel Brownie Cheesecake, brownie cheesecake, caramel dessert, chocolate cheesecake, layered cheesecake, decadent desserts