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Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

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4.3 from 39 reviews

Indulge in a rich and decadent Brownie Cheesecake that perfectly combines a fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer. This gluten-free dessert features layers of dark chocolate, cream cheese, and a hint of espresso powder for enhanced depth of flavor. Baked to a beautiful texture that’s slightly jiggly in the middle, then cooled to perfection, it’s an irresistible treat for any special occasion.

  • Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes (including cooling and chilling)
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Brownie Batter

  • ½ cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup coconut sugar (or granulated sugar)
  • 2 tbsp dark cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup gluten free flour (see note)
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips (additional)

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp gluten free flour (see note)
  • 2 eggs

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake later.
  2. Make the brownie batter base: In a bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of dark chocolate chips. Stir until the mixture is creamy and all chocolate is fully melted; use brief microwaving if needed. Set aside.
  3. Mix eggs and sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 cup of coconut sugar vigorously for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and frothy.
  4. Combine chocolate mixture with eggs: Add the melted chocolate and butter mixture to the egg and sugar bowl. Stir thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
  5. Add dry ingredients: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of dark cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup gluten free flour, and 1 teaspoon espresso powder (if using) into the batter. Stir until well blended.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in the additional ½ cup dark chocolate chips for added texture and chocolate richness.
  7. Layer brownie batter: Pour approximately three-quarters of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface into an even layer. Reserve the remaining batter for swirling into the cheesecake layer.
  8. Prepare cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl, beat 16 ounces of room temperature cream cheese, ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon gluten free flour using an electric mixer until creamy and smooth.
  9. Add eggs to cheesecake filling: Beat in 2 eggs just until combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain a creamy texture.
  10. Assemble cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the brownie layer in the pan. Dollop and swirl the remaining brownie batter on top to create a marbled effect.
  11. Bake the cheesecake: Bake the assembled brownie cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Then turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open.
  12. Cool down in oven: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually within the oven over 2 hours to prevent cracking and ensure proper texture.
  13. Room temperature cooling: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for an additional 4 hours to further set.
  14. Chill overnight: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate it overnight to develop flavor and firmness.
  15. Serve: Remove from fridge, slice, and serve your decadent brownie cheesecake to enjoy a perfect balance of fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake.

Notes

  • Use gluten free flour if you need this dessert to be gluten free; regular flour can be substituted if desired.
  • Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor wonderfully.
  • Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling to avoid cracks and maintain smooth texture.
  • Slow cooling in the oven and resting times help prevent cheesecake cracks and improve texture.
  • Greek yogurt can be replaced with sour cream depending on your preference for tanginess and texture.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free