Creamy Brownie Cheesecake

Name: Creamy Brownie Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup unsalted Butter; 7.7 oz Dark chocolate (60%); ⅔ cup Dutch-processed Cocoa powder; 1 ¼ cups Granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon Espresso powder; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 Egg yolk; 2 Eggs; ¾ cup Flour; 17 oz Cream cheese (room temperature, full fat); ¾ cup Granulated sugar; ½ cup Sour cream; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 Eggs; 1 ½ tablespoon Cornstarch; 2.8 oz Dark chocolate (60%); 2.8 oz Heavy cream; ⅔ cup Cold heavy cream; ⅓ cup Powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 tablespoon Chocolate ganache (reserved, optional)

Recipe By:

Jennifer

Posted:

January 29, 2025

Jump to Recipe

This Creamy Brownie Cheesecake is a delightful treat that combines two beloved desserts into one extraordinary creation. Imagine a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer. It’s an indulgent dessert that is perfect for celebrations, cozy nights in, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. I can already smell the chocolate wafting through my kitchen! Let’s dive into the details of this recipe and see why it’s a must-try for any dessert lover.

Jump to:

Why This Recipe Works
Why You’ll Love This
Ingredients
Prepare the Springform Pan
Make the Brownie Batter
Make the Cheesecake Batter
Layer the Batters
Bake the Cheesecake
Make the Chocolate Ganache
Make the Whipped Cream
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
FAQs
Conclusion
More Easy Dessert Recipes:
📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Brownie Cheesecake combines the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate brownies with the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake. The method of swirling the brownie and cheesecake batters creates a beautiful marbled effect, ensuring each bite is a delightful blend of both textures and tastes. It’s like enjoying a brownie and cheesecake at the same time, and who wouldn’t love that?

Why You’ll Love This

Not only is this dessert visually stunning, but it also satisfies the cravings of both chocolate lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts. The balance of flavors, creamy textures, and the touch of espresso enhance the chocolate, making this recipe an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dessert will surely impress everyone.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy Brownie Cheesecake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownie Layer:
– ¾ cup unsalted Butter
– 7.7 oz Dark chocolate (60%)
– ⅔ cup Dutch-processed Cocoa powder
– 1 ¼ cups Granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon Espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
– 1 Egg yolk
– 2 Eggs
– ¾ cup Flour

For the Cheesecake Layer:
– 17 oz Cream cheese (room temperature, full fat)
– ¾ cup Granulated sugar
– ½ cup Sour cream
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
– 2 Eggs
– 1 ½ tablespoon Cornstarch

For the Ganache and Whipped Cream:
– 2.8 oz Dark chocolate (60%)
– 2.8 oz Heavy cream
– ⅔ cup Cold heavy cream
– ⅓ cup Powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoon Chocolate ganache (reserved, optional)

Prepare the Springform Pan

Start by preparing a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cheesecake comes out easily. Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial for baking the cheesecake evenly.

Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate together. You can do this in the microwave or using a bain-marie. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Next, add the granulated sugar, espresso powder, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Mix well to combine all those delicious flavors.

Now, sift in the cocoa powder and combine thoroughly. It’s important to sift to avoid lumps. Incorporate the egg yolk and the two eggs, mixing until smooth. Finally, sift in the flour and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a fudgy brownie texture.

Make the Cheesecake Batter

In another large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese using an electric mixer. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix until creamy and smooth. It’s essential that the cream cheese is at room temperature for a perfect texture.

Next, add the eggs and mix until everything is well combined. Sift in the cornstarch and mix just until incorporated. This will help give your cheesecake the perfect consistency without being too dense.

Layer the Batters

Now comes the fun part! Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared springform pan, smoothing it out evenly. Next, pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly.

Now, let’s create those beautiful swirls! Top with dollops of the remaining brownie batter. Then, take a knife or a skewer and gently swirl it through both batters. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to see those lovely layers.

Bake the Cheesecake

It’s time to bake! Place your cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still be slightly jiggly. This is normal and will help create that creamy texture.

When it’s done baking, open the oven door halfway and let the cheesecake cool for 1-2 hours at room temperature. This cooling step helps prevent cracks from forming. Afterward, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or until fully chilled.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

While your cheesecake is chilling, let’s prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small bowl, combine the dark chocolate and heavy cream. Microwave for about a minute, then let it sit for 10 minutes. After that, stir until smooth. This velvety ganache will be the perfect topping for your cheesecake.

Don’t forget to reserve 2 tablespoons of ganache for the whipped cream later!

Make the Whipped Cream

In a large bowl, mix the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, reserved ganache, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until stiff peaks form. This will create a rich and creamy whipped topping that complements the cheesecake perfectly. Pipe the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake for an elegant look.

Serving Suggestions

When you’re ready to serve, take your cheesecake out of the fridge. It’s best served chilled, so be patient! You can garnish it with extra chocolate ganache drizzled over the top or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation. The combination of the creamy cheesecake and the tartness of berries makes for an irresistible bite.

Tips for Success

Ensure that all ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Avoid overmixing either batter; this keeps the cheesecake light and fluffy.
Allow ample cooling time before chilling. This step is vital to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, here are some delicious variations to try:

Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor if you prefer.
You can also incorporate flavor extracts such as almond or orange to give your cheesecake a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that cooking times may vary. Adjust as necessary and check for doneness to avoid under or overbaking.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

4. What should I serve with it?
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

Making a Creamy Brownie Cheesecake may seem daunting, but with this guide, you’ll be able to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy the rich, decadent flavors and the satisfaction of creating a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Each bite is a celebration of flavors, and I’m sure you’ll be making this recipe again and again. Happy baking!

More Easy Dessert Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card