Okay, friends, let me tell you about pure dessert heaven. If brownies and cheesecake had a baby, and then that baby got dipped in caramel, you’d get something close to this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. Seriously, it’s THAT good. It’s like the sophisticated older cousin of a simple chocolate cheesecake, but with a fudgy brownie layer that just takes it over the top. I swear, the first time I made this, it disappeared faster than I could say “second slice!”
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What is Caramel Brownie Cheesecake?
Think of it as a decadent trifecta: a dense, fudgy brownie base, topped with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer, and finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. It’s essentially three desserts in one, but they all work together in perfect harmony. The brownie provides that deep, chocolatey flavor and that satisfying chew, while the cheesecake adds a light, airy texture and that classic cheesecake tang. Then, the caramel…oh, the caramel! It just brings everything together with its sweet, buttery goodness. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite. It is the perfect Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for special occasions or just a simple reward for yourself.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are so many reasons to adore this recipe, I barely know where to start! First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The rich, fudgy brownie, the creamy cheesecake, and the sweet caramel create an irresistible combination that will have you hooked from the very first bite. What I love most about this is how surprisingly easy it is to make. Don’t let the fancy name fool you – it’s actually quite simple to put together, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, which means you can whip it up whenever a craving strikes. It’s way cheaper than buying something similar at a fancy bakery, trust me. And talk about versatility! You can serve it for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy snack. I’ve even been known to sneak a sliver straight from the fridge at midnight. This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is also a HUGE crowd pleaser and will become a family favorite.
How do you make caramel brownie cheesecake?
Quick Overview
Is it easier to make this masterpiece than you think? How do I make a creamy brownie batter? Cheesecake filling. Layer them in a pan, swirl them together to create marbled effect, and bake until golden brown. Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce, and voila! What is a show-stopping dessert? Do not be intimidated by the multiple layers; each one is simple to make!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cheesecake Layer:
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Drizzle:
* 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. I always line the bottom with parchment paper, too, for easy removal. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Make sure there are no lumps! This ensures an even texture in your brownie.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and vanilla extract. Set aside. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You want the mixture to be smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough brownie. We want fudgy, not cakey!
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract, and mix until just combined. Again, don’t overmix!
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Do not overbake brownies. Pour batter into prepared pan. Dollop the cheesecake filling over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two batters together. This creates an amazing marbled effect. I like to make figure-eight patterns for a cool look.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it! The cheesecake layer should be set around the edges, but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan before drizzling with caramel sauce. I usually pop it in the fridge for a couple of hours to chill completely. What makes it easier to slice? I warm mine slightly so that it flows better.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice into squares and serve. For clean slices, use a wet knife. What are some good garnishes to serve with a sprinkle of sea salt? Is this best served chilled?
What to Serve It With
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a showstopper all on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, here are a few serving suggestions:
For Breakfast: A strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The bitterness of the coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cheesecake. I like to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
For Brunch:Champagne or mimosas? How do bubbles cut through the richness of cheesecake, creating a refreshing contrast. Add a side of fresh berries for color and flavor.
As Dessert:A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The coldness of the ice cream complements the warmth of brownie. What is the best way to serve chocolate sauce?
For Cozy Snacks:A glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate. What are some of the best desserts? My kids love this combo after school!
My family tradition is to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on Thanksgiving. What is a unique take on traditional holiday desserts? We always fight over the last piece!
How do you make a caramel brownie cheesecake?
What are some of the best ways to take your Caramel Brownie Cheesecake to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?
Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. This will prevent lumps and ensure a smooth and creamy filling. I usually leave mine out at room temperature for at least an hour.
Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter or the cheesecake filling. Overmixing can result in a tough brownie and a dense cheesecake. Mix until just combined.
Swirl Customization: Get creative with your swirling technique! Use a knife, skewer, or even a chopstick to create different patterns. You can also use different colors of batter for a more dramatic effect. Try adding a few drops of food coloring to the cheesecake batter.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter to the brownie batter. For the cheesecake filling, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon.
Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning. You can also place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create a more humid environment, which will help prevent cracking.
Glaze Variations: If you don’t have caramel sauce on hand, you can use chocolate sauce, ganache, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a salted caramel flavor. I once accidentally used maple syrup instead of caramel and it was amazing!
One time, I forgot to grease the pan and it was a nightmare to get the cheesecake out. Learn from my mistakes, friends! Always grease and flour the pan, or use parchment paper.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy your Caramel Brownie Cheesecake later? Here’s how to store it properly:
Room Temperature: You can store the cheesecake at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil.
Refrigerator Storage: The cheesecake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I like to use a cake container with a lid.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cheesecake, it’s best to add the caramel drizzle after thawing. This will prevent the caramel from becoming sticky and clumpy. You can also freeze the caramel sauce separately and drizzle it over the cheesecake just before serving.
Pro-tip: if you freeze individual slices, they’re perfect for a quick dessert fix!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my Caramel Brownie Cheesecake recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. I truly believe that everyone should try this recipe at least once. The combination of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and sweet caramel is simply irresistible. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cheesecake recipes for more delicious inspiration! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy baking!
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Bliss: 5 Secret Tips to Perfection!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz brownie mix Use your favorite brand.
- 3 lbs cream cheese Room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup caramel sauce Divided plus extra for drizzling.
- 1 cup whipped cream For garnish, optional.
- 0.5 cup chocolate shavings For garnish, optional.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease springform pan and line with parchment paper.
- Prepare brownie batter according to package. Pour into pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Let brownie cool completely on a wire rack.
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla. Mix until combined. Incorporate eggs one by one.
- Add sour cream and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
- Pour cheesecake over the brownie base. Swirl in caramel sauce with a toothpick.
- Bake in oven for 60 minutes. Turn oven off and let cool inside for 1 hour.
- Chill overnight in the fridge after it cools to room temperature.
- Release from springform pan. Garnish with caramel, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings.
