Description
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence, featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a smooth and creamy vanilla cheesecake layer, all finished with a luscious salted caramel topping. This decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a truly show-stopping treat.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla paste or vanilla extract
For the Caramel Topping:
- ½ cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Incorporate Flour: Fold in all-purpose flour until just combined—do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 15 minutes, until edges are set but center is slightly underbaked. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugars: Mix in granulated sugar and brown sugar until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Cream & Eggs: Pour in heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in vanilla paste or extract.
Assemble & Bake:
- Layer Cheesecake Batter: Pour cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Return to oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, until edges are set and center jiggles slightly when shaken.
- Cool & Chill: Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Add Caramel Topping:
- Warm Caramel: Gently heat caramel sauce until pourable.
- Drizzle & Serve: Pour caramel over the chilled cheesecake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
Notes
- Prevent Cracks: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing.
- Shortcut Option: Use a boxed brownie mix for the base if desired.
- For Extra Indulgence: Add a chocolate ganache layer before the caramel for an even richer dessert
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 65-75 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cheesecake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
