If you’re craving a dessert that feels like the ultimate indulgence, you absolutely must try this Brownie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of dense, fudgy brownie and silky, creamy cheesecake layered into one heavenly treat. Every bite offers that irresistible balance of rich chocolate and smooth cream cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring a slice solo, this dessert will quickly become your new go-to when you want to impress or simply satisfy a serious sweet tooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of baking, and for this recipe, each one plays a crucial role in the final texture and flavor. From the butter that adds moistness to the cocoa’s deep chocolate notes and the dreamy tang of cream cheese, this list is simple but packed with essentials that truly elevate the dessert.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Adds richness and the perfect moisture for fudgy brownies.
- Granulated sugar (3 cups total): Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers perfectly.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Brings that intense chocolate flavor essential for brownie bliss.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth to both batter layers.
- Large eggs (7 total): Provide structure and richness to both the brownie and cheesecake.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Supplies just enough structure without overpowering fudginess.
- Chocolate chips (1 cup, optional): Extra bursts of melty chocolate make every bite a little more special.
- Cream cheese (3 packages, softened): The silky heart of the cheesecake, lending tartness and creaminess.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Keeps the cheesecake ultra-smooth and adds subtle tang.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Used for the luscious chocolate ganache topping.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts into the perfect glossy ganache to finish the dessert.
How to Make Brownie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get a 9×13 inch pan ready by greasing and flouring it. I love lining the bottom with parchment paper because it makes lifting the brownie cheesecake out a breeze later on.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Start by mixing the melted butter and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and combined. Then whisk in the cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract to infuse that classic chocolatey goodness. Incorporate the eggs one by one, making sure everything is perfectly blended. Finally, fold in the flour gently until just combined, and add the optional chocolate chips if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Step 3: Spread the Brownie Base
Pour the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. This thick base will become the fudgy foundation of your dessert.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s incredibly smooth and creamy, which is key for a velvety cheesecake. Add in sugar and vanilla, blending well. Then incorporate the eggs one at a time on low speed to keep the mixture light. Stir in sour cream last for that extra silky texture.
Step 5: Layer and Bake
Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the cheesecake looks set around the edges but still has a little jiggle in the center – that’s the sign of silky perfection.
Step 6: Cool Gradually
Turn off the oven and leave the pan inside with the door slightly open for about an hour. This slow cooling prevents cracks and keeps your cheesecake smooth. Then, remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait.
Step 7: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Warm the heavy cream until hot but not boiling, pour over the semi-sweet chocolate chips, and let it sit for a bit to melt. Whisk until glossy and smooth, warming in short bursts if necessary. Once cooled slightly, pour the ganache over your chilled brownie cheesecake and spread evenly.
Step 8: Final Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the ganache-covered dessert for 30 minutes to set. When ready, slice into generous squares and enjoy every decadent bite.
How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top adds a lovely visual contrast and a hint of extra sweetness. For a fresh touch, you can add raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream, which balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take it to the next level of indulgence. Fresh fruit or a crisp espresso also complement the deep chocolate and creamy cheesecake layers wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownie cheesecake into bite-size squares for a party platter, or serve individual slices with a decorative swirl of ganache and fresh berries. Layering it in clear dessert cups for a show-stopping visual effect is another fabulous idea to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra brownie cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It holds up beautifully for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain that luscious texture.
Reheating
Because it’s best enjoyed chilled, I recommend serving it cold. But if you want a cozy twist, gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to slightly soften the ganache without melting the cheesecake layer.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
For the best texture and richness, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat versions may not set as smoothly and can alter the decadent texture.
Is it necessary to use both sour cream and heavy cream?
Yes, because the sour cream adds moisture and tang to the cheesecake, while the heavy cream is essential for creating that silky chocolate ganache topping.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure any chocolate chips you use are gluten-free as well.
Why does the cheesecake layer jiggle in the center when it’s done?
A slight jiggle means it’s perfectly baked—creamy and not overcooked. It will firm up as it cools and chills in the fridge.
How long does it take to set the ganache topping?
Refrigerating for about 30 minutes is usually enough for the ganache to set to a smooth, satiny finish that’s perfect for slicing.
Final Thoughts
This Brownie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe is truly a showstopper. With its rich brownie base, creamy cheesecake center, and glossy chocolate ganache, it brings together the best of all worlds in every forkful. I encourage you to give it a try and experience firsthand how it can turn any day into a special celebration filled with decadence and delight.
Print
Brownie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this decadent Brownie Cheesecake recipe, a luscious two-layer dessert combining rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake, topped with a silky chocolate ganache. Perfectly balanced flavors and textures create the ultimate treat for special occasions or anytime you crave a spectacularly delicious dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Cheesecake Layer
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the dessert after baking.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth. Add cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing to incorporate fully. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually stir in flour until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Pour Brownie Batter: Pour the prepared brownie batter into the baking pan, spreading it evenly to create a uniform base layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a separate large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Add eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing after each. Stir in sour cream until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Combine Layers: Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie batter layer in the pan, spreading it evenly to cover the base completely.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until the cheesecake layer is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the pan inside with the door slightly ajar for about one hour to cool gradually, preventing cracks in the cheesecake layer.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the dessert to cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to firm up.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute until hot but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate bowl. Let it sit for one minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy. If needed, heat in 15-second intervals while stirring until fully melted and combined.
- Apply Ganache: Allow ganache to cool slightly, then pour it over the chilled brownie cheesecake, spreading evenly to coat the top.
- Set Ganache: Return the dessert to the refrigerator for 30 minutes so the ganache can set properly.
- Serve: Cut the brownie cheesecake into squares. Optionally dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving.
- Store: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Using parchment paper ensures easy removal and clean edges when slicing the dessert.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake layer; slight jiggle in the center indicates perfect doneness.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- Ganache can be made in advance and stored in the fridge; reheat gently before using if needed.
- Optional chocolate chips in the brownie layer add texture and extra chocolate flavor.
