Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that will make your taste buds dance? I’m talking about a Caramel Brownie Cheesecake that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy delight of cheesecake, all swirled together with luscious caramel. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a sweet treat to enjoy after a quick family dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a delightful combination of brownie and cheesecake, making it a unique dessert idea to sell at bake sales or family gatherings.
- The caramel swirls add a touch of elegance and flavor that will impress your guests.
- It’s a make-ahead dessert, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- With simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up, even if you’re not a baking expert!
- This recipe is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings like chocolate chips or nuts.
Ingredients
To create this decadent Caramel Brownie Cheesecake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra caramel drizzle
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create this heavenly dessert:
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until well combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Bake the Brownie Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Pour the brownie batter into the pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 20 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Eggs and Sour Cream: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is smooth.
- Layer the Cheesecake on the Brownie Base: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the slightly cooled brownie base, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Caramel Swirl: Drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to create swirls.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Place the springform pan in a preheated oven and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Melt the Sugar: Heat the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber in color.
- Add the Butter: Carefully whisk in the butter until fully melted.
- Add the Cream and Salt: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with more caramel sauce.
- Add Toppings: Optionally, sprinkle with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or additional caramel swirls.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Caramel Brownie Cheesecake turns out perfectly:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t overmix the batter; fold gently to keep the cheesecake light and fluffy.
- For a fun twist, try adding a layer of crushed Oreos for an Oreo Caramel Cheesecake variation!
- Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the cheesecake chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Pair it with fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
- For a fun twist, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead of time! Here are some storage tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, you can impress your family and friends with your baking skills! And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my post on How to make the best cheesy broccoli in 15 minutes for a quick family dinner or explore Coconut cake with pineapple filling: a tropical delight for your table for a summery dessert idea. Happy baking!
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce
- 3-4 tablespoons caramel sauce for swirl
Toppings
- to taste chocolate chips
- to taste chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla; then fold in cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Bake brownie base at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes; cool slightly.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar; add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla to make the cheesecake filling.
- Pour cheesecake over brownie base, swirl with caramel sauce, then bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-50 minutes.
- Cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, then drizzle with caramel and add toppings before serving.