Caramel Brownie Cheesecake — The Ultimate Dessert You’ll Crave
If you’ve ever taken a bite of something so rich you’re convinced dessert must be a love language, that’s what I felt the first time I tasted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. It’s part fudgy brownie, part velvety cheesecake, part gooey caramel—and for me, it’s like the dessert version of that moment when you finally collapse on the couch after a long day and everything feels just right.
Here’s how to make your very own Caramel Brownie Cheesecake, so you can wow friends, treat yourself, or just give tomorrow something delicious to look forward to.
What You Need: Ingredients & Pantry Staples
Below is your full ingredient list—measurements are U.S., and everything’s written so you can shop, prep, and get baking without scrambling.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 stick (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (85 g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (62 g) all-purpose flour
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, completely softened
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup (59 g) heavy cream
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla paste)
For the Caramel Topping:
- ½ cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or good store-bought)
Optional Garnishes:
- Flaky sea salt
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- Whipped cream
Equipment & Tools You’ll Want:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- An oven that maintains a stable temperature
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Preparation & Baking Instructions
Here’s how to turn those ingredients into something extraordinary. You’ll notice the textures shift, the flavors layer, and your patience gets rewarded.
Making the Brownie Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. Grease the springform pan well (bottom and sides). In a large bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Once that’s smooth, stir in vanilla and the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Fold in the flour last. Pour into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Bake this layer for about 15 minutes—or until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly soft (you want it fudgy, not overdone). Remove and let it cool to room temperature. Chilling in the fridge helps if you want cleaner layers.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling & Combining Layers
While the brownie base rests, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add both sugars and heavy cream, scraping the bowl so there are no lumps. Then, mix in eggs one at a time, being careful not to overbeat. Finish with vanilla.
Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the cooled brownie base. Tap the pan lightly on your counter to release air bubbles. Place the springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet (just in case of leaks), then bake in the same oven (325°F) for about 55 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set; the centre may jiggle slightly—it will firm up as it chills.
Cooling, Chilling & Topping
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake sit for around 10 minutes in the oven. Then allow it to cool fully at room temperature on a wire rack. Once at room temp, refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better.
Just before serving, release the cheesecake from the pan. Drizzle or spread the salted caramel sauce on top. If you like, sprinkle flaky sea salt or chocolate shavings, or nuts, for contrast.
Dietary Variations
You don’t have to miss out—this dessert can be adapted to various diet needs without losing its soul.
Vegan Version
Substitute plant-based cream cheese (made from cashews or coconut) and use vegan butter. Eggs can be replaced with flax “eggs” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or a commercial vegan egg replacer. Use a coconut cream (or other non-dairy heavy cream) for richness. Caramel sauce should be dairy-free, maybe made from coconut milk and cane sugar.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose. Make sure your cocoa powder is GF certified. If you opt for a brownie mix or chocolate components, check their labels. Caramel and all other ingredients must be checked for cross-contact if needed.
Low-Calorie / Lighter Version
Reduce sugar amounts slightly (use a sugar substitute that behaves like sugar in baking, if you like). Use lower-fat cream cheese or mix part regular with part Greek yogurt. Use light caramel or drizzle instead of a full caramel layer. Make smaller portions—mini cheesecakes in ramekins help with control and presentation.
Halal / Allergies & Other Dietary Needs
Ensure dairy is from halal-certified sources. For egg allergies, use egg replacers as above. For nut allergies, skip the nuts, use seed oils, etc. For kosher or other religious restrictions, use certified ingredients. Always verify caramel and flavourings are compliant.
Tips & Tricks for Best Results
You want each slice to look like you bought it at a bakery? These pointers will help:
- Prevent cracks by avoiding dramatic temperature changes. Let the cheesecake cool gradually, leave the door cracked, and never open the oven too soon.
- Get a fudgy brownie texture by not overbaking; the centre should stay slightly soft. Brownie layer sets further once chilled.
- Perfect your caramel by watching the temperature carefully. Avoid boiling too hard, stir often, and don’t let it burn. If using store-bought, warm it up slightly before drizzling.
- Slice cleanly—use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wipe between cuts. Chill thoroughly before slicing.
Storage, Making Ahead & Freezing
This is as much a dessert for planning ahead as it is for indulgence.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake, covered, for up to 3-4 days. Keep it in the coldest part of the fridge.
- You can bake a day ahead. Chill overnight. When ready to serve, add the caramel and any garnish.
- To freeze: wrap the whole cheesecake (once cooled) in plastic wrap, then aluminium foil. Freeze up to a month. Thaw in fridge overnight.
- Serving tips: best at cool room temperature. If too cold, flavours hide. Let it sit 15-20 minutes before eating.
You’re now armed with everything to make a show-stopping Caramel Brownie Cheesecake that balances fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and rich caramel drizzle in perfect harmony. Give it a try—you might just make someone’s entire day (maybe your own).
FAQ
What is the best way to prevent cracks in Caramel Brownie Cheesecake?
You can avoid cracks by letting the cheesecake cool slowly and evenly. Once baking is done, turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cake rest inside for 10-15 minutes. After that, let it cool fully at room temperature before chilling in the fridge. Also, avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling once eggs are added, and aim for edges set but centre still slightly wobbly.
Do I need a water bath for Caramel Brownie Cheesecake?
No, you don’t have to use a water bath. Many recipes skip it and still end up great. If you do skip it, the key is temperature control: slow cooling, avoiding drafts, and insulating your pan help keep things smooth. The caramel topping can also help hide minor imperfections.
How long should I chill the cheesecake before slicing?
Chill your cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though overnight gives the best texture and cleaner slices. Make sure it’s completely cool at room temperature first; then refrigerate covered. A fully chilled cake holds layers together better when you slice it.
Can I freeze Caramel Brownie Cheesecake, and what’s the best way to thaw it?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminium foil, to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw slowly in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temp (about 15-20 minutes) before slicing.
What type of caramel is best for topping: store-bought or homemade?
Either works well. Store-bought caramel gives you convenience; homemade gives you control over flavour, salt levels, and texture. If you choose homemade, cook carefully so it doesn’t burn; salted caramel often adds a nice contrast against the richness of the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Print
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes (includes cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A decadent dessert combining a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake filling, and silky salted caramel topping. Perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you crave a show-stopping sweet.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
1 stick (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (85 g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup (62 g) all-purpose flour
Cheesecake Filling
24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
¼ cup (59 g) heavy cream
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Caramel Topping
½ cup salted caramel sauce
Optional Garnishes
Flaky sea salt
Chocolate shavings
Chopped nuts
Whipped cream
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir in vanilla and eggs one at a time. Fold in flour. Spread batter in pan and bake 15 minutes. Cool completely.
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugars and heavy cream; scrape bowl. Mix in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Pour filling over cooled brownie base, tap pan to remove air bubbles. Bake 55–60 minutes until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest 10–15 minutes. Cool on rack, then chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, drizzle caramel on top. Add flaky sea salt, chocolate shavings, nuts, or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best flavor.
Warm caramel slightly for easier drizzling.
Dip knife in hot water and wipe between cuts for neat slices.
You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month wrapped tightly.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 36 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
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