Caramel Brownie Cheesecake: A Decadent Delight for Every Sweet Tooth
Desserts hold a special place in our hearts, often creating the most memorable moments around the table. There’s something uniquely magical about indulging in a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying, and Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is just that. This luscious dessert combines the rich, fudgy decadence of a brownie with the creamy, tangy smoothness of a cheesecake, all topped off with a swirl of sweet caramel sauce and a garnish of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. If you’re looking to create a showstopper dessert for a special occasion, or simply want to treat yourself to a decadent dessert, this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is the answer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 package brownie mix: The brownie mix serves as the foundation for this dessert, offering a rich and chocolatey base that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer. It’s a quick and easy way to achieve that fudgy texture without needing to make brownies from scratch. Be sure to follow the additional ingredients specified on the box, such as eggs, oil, and water, to create the best base.
Cheesecake Layer:
- 24 ounces cream cheese (softened): The cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, contributing to its smooth, creamy texture. Softening the cream cheese is essential to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients, preventing lumps and ensuring a velvety consistency.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The sugar adds the sweetness needed to balance out the tanginess of the cream cheese. It helps to achieve that perfect cheesecake flavor that pairs so well with the brownie base.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake, rounding out the sweetness and adding depth to the dessert.
- 3 large eggs: The eggs bind the ingredients together and help provide structure to the cheesecake, ensuring it sets properly as it bakes.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds a slight tanginess to the cheesecake filling, balancing the richness of the cream cheese and providing a creamier texture.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and ensures the cheesecake layer is smooth and silky, contributing to the overall decadence of the dessert.
Caramel Swirl:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce: The caramel sauce is swirled into the cheesecake, adding a layer of sweet, buttery flavor that complements both the brownie base and the cheesecake. The caramel ribbons also create a beautiful marbled effect, giving the cheesecake an elegant appearance.
For Garnishing:
- Whipped cream: Whipped cream provides a light, airy topping that contrasts with the richness of the brownie and cheesecake layers. It adds a touch of freshness and helps balance out the dessert’s sweetness.
- Chocolate shavings: These add a touch of sophistication and extra chocolate flavor, making the cheesecake even more indulgent.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan. The springform pan is ideal for this recipe because it allows you to easily remove the cheesecake once it’s set, without disturbing the layers. Next, prepare the brownie mix according to the instructions on the package. This typically involves mixing eggs, oil, and water with the brownie mix until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownie base cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling on top.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
Once the brownie base has cooled, lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then, add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until the cheesecake filling is completely smooth. The cheesecake layer should be thick, smooth, and slightly tangy from the cream cheese and sour cream.
3. Add the Caramel Swirl:
Now comes the fun part—adding the caramel swirl! Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cheesecake filling in a zigzag pattern, then use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the caramel throughout the filling. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want the caramel ribbons to remain visible. This step will not only enhance the flavor but also create a beautiful marbled effect when the cheesecake is baked.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly. The center should firm up as the cheesecake cools. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for about an hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking from the temperature change.
5. Chill and Garnish:
After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, and chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Notes
- For a Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free variety, ensuring that the other ingredients are also gluten-free. Many caramel sauces are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the label to be sure.
- For a Lighter Version: If you’re looking to reduce the richness, you can swap the sour cream and heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use a lighter cream cheese variety. This will help lighten the texture without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Add-ins and Variations: Try adding crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, between the brownie base and cheesecake layers for an extra crunch. You could also experiment with different flavors of caramel, such as salted caramel, to add a savory twist to the dessert.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Caramel Brownie Cheesecake with a cup of coffee or dessert wine, such as a sweet Moscato or Port, to complement the dessert’s richness. This cheesecake also pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to its richness.