Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 package brownie mix
- Ingredients required by brownie mix (usually eggs, oil, water)
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
Toppings
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) caramel sauce
- 1/3 cup (60 g) chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped brownies (from reserved brownies or extra)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure the dessert doesn’t stick to the sides.
- Prepare and bake brownie crust: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared springform pan and bake for 20 minutes until set but still soft in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully and create a smooth batter.
- Incorporate vanilla and cream: Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until the cheesecake batter is well combined and silky smooth.
- Assemble cheesecake: Pour the prepared cheesecake mixture over the slightly cooled brownie crust in the springform pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
- Cool gradually in oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Add toppings and serve: Before serving, spread caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped brownies over the caramel layer for added texture and indulgence.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Ensure the brownie crust is cooled slightly before adding cheesecake filling to avoid melting the mixture.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven to minimize cracks on the surface.
- Refrigerating overnight greatly improves the texture and flavor of the cheesecake.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with salted caramel for an extra flavor twist.
- Use a water bath if desired for an even creamier cheesecake, though it’s optional.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American