Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Triple Layer Delight: Enjoy the harmonious blend of three classic desserts in one—brownie, cheesecake, and caramel.
- Texture Perfection: Experience the contrast between the dense brownie base and the airy cheesecake topping, all enhanced by a silky caramel swirl.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dessert is sure to impress guests with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- For the Brownie Base:
- 1 package brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the package)
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- For the Caramel Swirl:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Directions
- Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownie base to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Caramel Swirl:
- Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer.
- Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Transfer the cooled cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to let it fully set.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top.
- Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cooling and Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for added crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top in addition to the caramel sauce.
- Fruit Twist: Top with fresh berries or a berry compote to add a refreshing contrast.
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer for a sweet and salty flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold. If you prefer it slightly warm, allow a slice to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
What type of brownie mix should I use?
You can use any brand of brownie mix you prefer. Opt for a fudgy variety for a richer base.
Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
A springform pan is recommended for easy removal
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. Featuring a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and a luscious caramel swirl, this decadent treat is a show-stopper for any occasion. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth, it’s a dessert you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 package brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the package)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Caramel Swirl:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Prepare brownie batter per package instructions and spread evenly in the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract.
- Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
- Spread cheesecake batter evenly over cooled brownie base.
Add the Caramel Swirl:
- Drizzle caramel sauce over cheesecake batter.
- Swirl caramel with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place springform pan on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
- Cool in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve:
- Remove from springform pan.
- Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For a salted caramel twist, sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer.
- Cheesecake can be made a day in advance for best results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling & Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American