Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
If you’re someone who swoons at the thought of rich, fudgy brownies and velvety cheesecake in one bite, this Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is the dessert you’ve been dreaming of! Imagine a lusciously moist brownie base cradling a silky cream cheese layer, all crowned with dreamy ganache, billowy whipped cream, or juicy berries. Every forkful delivers pure bliss—thick, creamy, and supremely chocolatey—which is why this showstopper always disappears first at gatherings. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a regular Tuesday, this irresistible combo is the sweet finale that guarantees smiles all around!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Brownie Bottom Cheesecake, you’ll only need a handful of familiar, fuss-free ingredients, each chosen for the flavor and texture they add. These simple staples work together like magic to create a dessert that’s as stunning as it is satisfying.
- Brownie mix (1 box and ingredients as directed): The shortcut to an irresistibly fudgy and chocolatey foundation—use your favorite brand for best results.
- Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened): Ensure it’s at room temperature for the creamiest, smoothest cheesecake layer.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Just enough to sweeten the cheesecake without making it cloying.
- Eggs (2 large): Room-temperature eggs give lift and structure to the cheesecake.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds beautiful depth and rounds out the flavors.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): The secret for a tangy, supremely luscious cheesecake texture.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): A touch of flour helps stabilize the creamy cheesecake.
- Chocolate ganache or syrup (optional): For that glossy, decadent finish on your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake.
- Whipped cream or berries (optional): These take your presentation—and taste—to the next level.
How to Make Brownie Bottom Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and prepping a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper or give it a good greasing; this small step ensures your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake releases beautifully and with zero stress once chilled and set.
Step 2: Brownie Batter Magic
Whip up your brownie batter according to the package directions (don’t forget to gather eggs, oil, and water as needed). Pour it into your prepared pan and spread it into an even, cozy layer. A quick bake—just 20 minutes—lets the brownie base set up perfectly while staying oh-so-fudgy underneath.
Step 3: Creamy Cheesecake Mixing
While the brownie layer bakes, get your cheesecake filling ready. In a big mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and inviting. Add the sugar and blend till combined, then work in the eggs one at a time for extra silkiness. Last, stir in the vanilla, sour cream, and flour. What you’ll have is a dreamy batter you’ll want to sample straight off the spoon!
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Gently pour that cheesecake mixture over the par-baked brownie base, smoothing the top. Slide the pan back into the oven for another 45 to 50 minutes. When done, the center should be just a little wobbly—and that’s perfect! The real magic happens as it cools and firms up.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off your oven, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour—this prevents cracks and makes all the difference. Afterward, let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) so every layer sets up just right for slicing and serving.
How to Serve Brownie Bottom Cheesecake
Garnishes
Give your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake the royal treatment with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of fresh berries. Each garnish not only looks stunning, but adds its own burst of flavor—making every slice irresistibly photogenic and even more delicious!
Side Dishes
Since this dessert is a star on its own, keep sides light and simple. A cup of dark roast coffee, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or some tart, fresh fruit are fantastic choices. They balance the cheesecake’s richness and elevate the entire dessert experience without stealing the limelight.
Creative Ways to Present
Bust out your creative side by turning your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake into individual mini cakes using a muffin tin, or add layers of fruit for colorful flair. You can even slice and stack pieces in parfait glasses for an eye-catching trifle that lets all those gorgeous layers shine through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brownie Bottom Cheesecake stores beautifully! Cover the cheesecake tightly and keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay luscious and fresh for up to 5 days. For best texture, let a slice sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze individual slices or the whole cake (without toppings) wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and add your favorite toppings just before eating.
Reheating
For that just-baked taste, you can very gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. This will soften the brownie base and bring out the chocolate aroma—talk about tempting!
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite scratch-made brownie recipe, go for it. Just use enough to create a thick layer in your pan, and prepare as usual for your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake.
How do I avoid cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar is key to minimizing cracks. Also, make sure all your cheesecake ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky-smooth batter.
Can I make Brownie Bottom Cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and swap in a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend for the tablespoon of flour—the results are still rich, creamy, and decadent.
What if my brownie layer seems too soft?
The brownie base is meant to be fudgy but should hold together. Make sure to at least partially bake the brownie before adding the cheesecake layer; it will firm up more as the dessert chills.
Can I add mix-ins to the brownie or cheesecake layers?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter in the brownie base add wonderful surprises. For the cheesecake layer, try folding in mini chocolate chips or a ribbon of fruit jam for a creative twist on classic Brownie Bottom Cheesecake.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving an easy, decadent treat that always leaves people asking for seconds (and the recipe!), you just have to give this Brownie Bottom Cheesecake a whirl. It’s pure dessert happiness in every creamy, chocolate-studded bite—and there’s nothing better than sharing something this special with the people you love.
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Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the best of both worlds with this decadent Brownie Bottom Cheesecake. A rich brownie layer serves as the base for a creamy cheesecake topping, creating a dessert that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Top it off with chocolate ganache, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a stunning finish.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed)
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate ganache or chocolate syrup
- Whipped cream or berries
Instructions
- Brownie Layer: Preheat oven to 325°F. Prepare brownie batter and pour into a lined/greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and flour until creamy. Pour over partially baked brownie layer.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes. Let cool in oven, then chill for at least 4 hours.
- Optional Toppings: Add chocolate ganache, whipped cream, or berries before serving.
Notes
- Partially bake the brownie base for a fudgy texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother cheesecake layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
