Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

The Best Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Tooth Lovers

Rich chocolate meets creamy caramel in this decadent caramel brownie cheesecake that promises pure indulgence.

Layers of intense flavor blend seamlessly across each luxurious slice.

Chocolate lovers will swoon over the deep, fudgy base complemented by silky cream cheese.

Smooth caramel ribbons wind through the dessert, creating irresistible swirls of sweetness.

Sophisticated yet approachable, this dessert feels like a celebration on a plate.

Crafting this masterpiece requires patience but delivers extraordinary results that will impress anyone who takes a bite.

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake That Wows

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake That Wows
  • Indulge in Decadence: A luxurious dessert that combines the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake, creating an irresistible flavor explosion.
  • Impress Your Guests: Perfect for special occasions, this show-stopping dessert looks professionally made but can be crafted in your own kitchen with simple techniques.
  • Master Layered Perfection: Requires some baking skills but offers a rewarding experience for home bakers looking to elevate their dessert game with a stunning two-layer treat.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Guaranteed to win over chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between intense chocolate and silky cream cheese flavors.

Ingredients for Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Brownie Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: A rich and flavorful ingredient that helps create a moist and tender brownie base.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to create a smooth texture in the brownie layer.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and deep color to the brownie base.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownie layer.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the chocolate base.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the rich texture of the brownie.
  • Flour: Provides structure and helps create the classic brownie consistency.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cheesecake mixture.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides a deeper, more complex sweetness to the cheesecake layer.
  • Heavy Cream: Contributes to the rich and velvety texture of the cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Help to set the cheesecake and create a smooth, custard-like consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake layer.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Salted Caramel Sauce: A decadent topping that adds a sweet and salty finish to the dessert.

How to Bake Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

How to Bake Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 325°F. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a quick spritz of nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Brownie Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Melted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt

Stir until the mixture looks smooth and rich. Let it cool down if it’s too warm.

Pour in vanilla extract and crack in eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Gently fold in flour until just combined.

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.

Step 3: Partially Bake Brownie Layer

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes.

You want the surface to start setting but not fully bake. Pull it out and let it cool completely, then pop it in the refrigerator to chill.

Step 4: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Fire up your electric mixer and beat cream cheese until silky smooth. Add in:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Heavy cream

Beat until the mixture looks dreamy and well-blended.

Scrape down the bowl’s sides to ensure everything gets mixed. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.

Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Layer the Cheesecake

Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base.

Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 55-60 minutes.

The top should look slightly dry, with a gentle jiggle in the center. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors mingle and set.

Step 8: Serve with Flair

Release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate. Slice and drizzle with salted caramel sauce just before serving.

Enjoy your show-stopping dessert!

Tips to Perfect Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Tips to Perfect Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
  • Ensure butter is fully melted but not scorching hot when mixing brownie batter to prevent scrambling eggs.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free cheesecake mixture that blends perfectly.
  • Tap pan gently on counter before baking to eliminate air bubbles, creating a silky, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • Cool cheesecake gradually in oven with door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.
  • Chill cheesecake overnight for best flavor development and easier slicing, allowing layers to set completely and enhance taste.

Variations to Try with Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Variations to Try with Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
  • Gluten-Free Brownie Cheesecake: Replace regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend to create a celiac-friendly version while maintaining the rich, decadent texture.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and substitute eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based dessert option.
  • Low-Sugar Caramel Brownie Version: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and create a sugar-free caramel sauce using alternative sweeteners to reduce overall sugar content.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Cheesecake: Utilize coconut cream cheese, replace butter with coconut oil, and use dairy-free milk alternatives to create a lactose-free dessert that still delivers incredible flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

  • Select a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the deep chocolate and caramel flavors, enhancing the dessert's luxurious profile.
  • Brew a strong espresso or dark roast coffee to balance the sweet cheesecake, cutting through its richness and providing a robust counterpoint.
  • Serve a smooth caramel-flavored liqueur like Baileys Caramel or Kahlúa alongside the cheesecake, amplifying the dessert's caramel notes and creating a decadent drinking experience.
  • Pour a small glass of aged bourbon with subtle vanilla and caramel undertones, which will harmonize beautifully with the cheesecake's complex flavor profile.

Storage Tips for Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Storage Tips for Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
  • Refrigerate: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring the quality and freshness remain intact.
  • Freeze: Wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Slice Storage: Separate individual slices with parchment paper before storing to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
  • Reheating: Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before enjoying.

FAQs

  • Why are the eggs added one at a time?

Adding eggs one at a time ensures they’re fully incorporated without overmixing, which prevents air bubbles and helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture in both the brownie and cheesecake layers.

  • What's the purpose of tapping the pan on the counter?

Tapping the pan helps release trapped air bubbles in the cheesecake mixture, preventing potential cracks and ensuring a smooth, even surface when baking.

  • Why cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open?

This gradual cooling method helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause the cheesecake to crack, creating a more stable and aesthetically pleasing final dessert.

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Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Caramel brownie cheesecake delights dessert enthusiasts with rich chocolate layers and creamy cheesecake swirls. Indulgent flavors and smooth textures combine for an irresistible experience you’ll savor to the last delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 large eggs
  • 200 grams of granulated sugar
  • 100 grams of granulated sugar
  • 100 grams of light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
  • 2 tsps of vanilla paste or extract
  • 1/4 tsp of fine salt
  • 680 grams of cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 113 grams of unsalted butter (melted)
  • 85 grams of unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 62 grams of all-purpose flour
  • 59 ml of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce (either store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 325°F (163°C) and coat a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Create the brownie base by mixing melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until thickened. Cool slightly if needed, then incorporate vanilla and eggs one at a time. Gently fold in flour until just combined. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the brownie base for 15 minutes until surface sets but not fully baked. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate completely.
  4. Whip cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Add sugars and heavy cream, beating until well combined. Scrape bowl sides periodically. Introduce eggs individually, mixing minimally after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract.
  5. Pour cheesecake mixture over the chilled brownie base. Tap pan gently to eliminate air bubbles.
  6. Position springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 55-60 minutes until top appears dry and center slightly jiggles. Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake rest inside for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.
  7. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
  8. Release from springform pan, transfer to serving plate. Slice and drizzle with salted caramel sauce just before serving.

Notes

  • Achieve a perfectly smooth cheesecake by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, which helps prevent lumps and creates a silky texture.
  • Prevent brownie base from becoming soggy by par-baking it briefly before adding the cheesecake layer, creating a firmer foundation for the delicate filling.
  • Use a water bath technique by placing the springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet filled with hot water to create more even baking and reduce the risk of cracking.
  • Customize the dessert by experimenting with different caramel variations, such as adding a sprinkle of sea salt or using dark caramel for a deeper flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 412 kcal
  • Sugar: 33 g
  • Sodium: 160 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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