Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Get ready for the ultimate indulgence with this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake—a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with creamy cheesecake and finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. It’s a triple-layer dessert dream that combines everything you love about brownies, cheesecake, and caramel in every decadent bite. Perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and unforgettable.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Three Layers of Flavor – Fudgy brownie, silky cheesecake, and gooey caramel
Perfect for Entertaining – A show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress
Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill overnight for the best texture and easy slicing
No Water Bath Needed – Simple steps with bakery-style results
Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or sea salt for your own twist

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownie Base:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder

For the Cheesecake Layer:
2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the Caramel Topping:
½ cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
Optional: pinch of sea salt for garnish

Optional Add-ins:
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
Extra caramel for layering

Tools You’ll Need
9-inch springform pan or deep cake pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or hand whisk
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack
Offset spatula (optional for smoothing layers)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C)
Line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides

Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a medium bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until smooth
Whisk in eggs and vanilla
Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder
Stir until just combined—do not overmix
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top
Bake for 15–18 minutes until the top is set (it will finish baking with the cheesecake layer)
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy
Add sugar and mix until well incorporated
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined
Mix in vanilla and sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the slightly cooled brownie base and smooth the top

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Return to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges look slightly puffed
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 10–15 minutes
Remove and allow to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight

Step 5: Add the Caramel Topping
Once fully chilled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake
Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread evenly
Add a pinch of sea salt if desired for a salted caramel finish
Optional: drizzle extra caramel or chocolate over each slice before serving

Tips for Success
Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend smoothly for a silky cheesecake texture
Don’t Overbake – The cheesecake should jiggle slightly in the center when done
Chill Thoroughly – At least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor and cleanest slices
Use Good Caramel – Homemade or quality store-bought makes a big difference
Customize the Crust – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a swirl of caramel before baking for more texture

Serving Suggestions
Top with whipped cream and crushed toffee bits
Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or espresso
Add a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt or light ice cream on the side
Sprinkle with chopped pecans or dark chocolate shavings for added flair
Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or holiday tables

How to Store and Freeze

Storing:
Cover and store cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days

Freezing:
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil
Freeze whole or in slices for up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes! Use your favorite boxed mix and bake just enough so it’s set before adding the cheesecake layer

Is a water bath necessary?
Nope! This recipe bakes perfectly without one

Can I use light cream cheese?
You can, but full-fat gives a creamier texture and richer taste

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the brownie base

What’s the best caramel to use?
Look for thick, buttery caramel sauces, or use homemade for the richest flavor

Final Thoughts
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is what dessert dreams are made of—decadent, layered, and irresistibly creamy with a touch of caramel magic. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Try it out and tag your creations to share your masterpiece. I’d love to see your delicious spins on this showstopping dessert!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 12 servings):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 23g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 210mg

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