Brownie Bottom Chocolate Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brownie Bottom Chocolate Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. It features a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy, luscious chocolate cheesecake layer. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent weekends, this decadent treat offers the best of both worlds in every bite.

ingredients

Brownie Layer
unsalted buttergranulated sugarsaltvanilla extracteggsall-purpose flourcocoa powder

Chocolate Cheesecake Layer
cream cheesegranulated sugarsour creameggsvanilla extractmelted semi-sweet chocolate

directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Brownie Layer

In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in sugar, salt, and vanilla until smooth.

Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then beat in eggs one at a time.

Sift in flour and cocoa powder, stir until combined.

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until just set. Remove from oven and cool slightly.

Cheesecake Layer

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

Add sugar and mix until creamy.

Blend in sour cream, eggs, and vanilla.

Stir in melted chocolate until fully incorporated.

Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie layer.

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.

Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with door cracked for 1 hour.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 slices.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60-70 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 5-6 hours
Total time: about 7 hours

Variations

Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate in the cheesecake layer for different flavor depths.

Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the brownie layer for extra texture.

Swirl raspberry puree into the cheesecake before baking for a fruity twist.

Top with whipped cream or ganache for an extra indulgent finish.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes, a boxed mix can be used for convenience—just follow package instructions for the base.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for rich flavor in the cheesecake layer.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, this dessert is perfect to make a day in advance—it sets even better overnight.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Overbaking or cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Let it cool gradually in the oven.

Can I skip the sour cream?

Sour cream adds creaminess and tang, but Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.

Do I need a water bath?

Not required, but a water bath can help ensure an evenly baked and crack-free cheesecake.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour in the brownie layer and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to slice it cleanly?

Use a hot knife (run under warm water and wiped dry) for clean, neat slices.

Conclusion

Brownie Bottom Chocolate Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines two beloved classics into one unforgettable indulgence. With its fudgy brownie base and velvety chocolate cheesecake top, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering or satisfy any chocolate craving.

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