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Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Delight

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Occasion

An irresistible layered dessert, this treat pairs a dense brownie base with a luscious, velvety cheesecake center. The harmony of creamy cream cheese and a chocolatey foundation is crowned by a generous drizzle of salted caramel, creating an indulgent balance of sweetness and savor. Between hints of vanilla, cocoa, and smooth caramel, every bite melt-in-the-mouth. This show-stopping finish is perfect for special gatherings or whenever you crave a little luxury. Preparation involves careful layering and chilling to achieve the perfect texture and balance of flavors.

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Updated on Mon, 19 May 2025 19:15:03 GMT
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Pin
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake | lottirecipes.com

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those days when you want something extra special. It marries dense fudgy brownie with velvety vanilla cheesecake then crowns it all with a glorious drizzle of salted caramel. Whenever I make this for gatherings, guests cannot decide if the best part is the gooey brownie bottom or the rich creamy topping.

I first baked this for a milestone birthday and it has been my go-to wow dessert since then. My friends still ask me to bring it to every potluck.

Ingredients

  • Unsalted butter: Essential for a moist and rich brownie layer Choose European style for bold flavor
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens both brownie and cheesecake layers Use fine white sugar for the smoothest texture
  • Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: Gives a deep chocolate taste Look for pure cocoa without added sugar
  • Fine salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes
  • Vanilla extract or paste: Lifts every layer with warmth Use real extract or paste for best results
  • Large eggs: Bind the components and add richness Use room temperature eggs for easy blending
  • All purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownie Choose unbleached for best texture
  • Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer Go for full fat blocks not spreadable tubs
  • Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel style undertone to the filling Check for fresh soft brown sugar not clumps
  • Heavy cream: Lends silkiness to the cheesecake Pick high quality cream for a creamy finish
  • Salted caramel sauce: The crowning touch on each slice A good store-bought version works or make your own

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Brownie Base:
Begin by preheating the oven to the correct temperature and preparing your springform pan with a generous coat of nonstick spray. Melt the butter then combine it with sugar cocoa powder and salt. Stir these together until thickened with a glossy sheen. Let it cool slightly if it feels very warm. Next add vanilla then beat in eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly after each. Add flour and fold in gently being careful not to overmix. Spread this mixture evenly into your pan.
Bake the Brownie Layer:
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for just enough time for the surface to start setting but do not let it cook through completely. Cool on a rack until room temperature then chill in the fridge to help the brownie become firm and dense.
Prepare Cheesecake Filling:
Use a stand or hand mixer to beat room temperature cream cheese until completely smooth with no lumps left. Sprinkle in both sugars plus the heavy cream. Blend until fluffy and even pausing to scrape the bowl often. Beat in eggs one by one only until just mixed in. Stir in vanilla for warmth and deep flavor.
Combine and Bake:
Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the chilled brownie base. Tap the pan gently on your counter to remove air bubbles. Place the springform pan on a larger baking sheet to catch any leaks and bake until the top looks dry but the center still wobbles a bit. Let it cool in the oven with the door open for a few minutes to prevent cracks. Set on a rack to cool fully.
Chill and Finish:
Once cooled to room temperature transfer to the fridge and leave undisturbed for at least several hours or overnight for the ultimate creamy texture. When ready to serve release the springform sides transfer to a platter and slice with a sharp knife. Generously drizzle each serving with salted caramel sauce.
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Pin
Caramel Brownie Cheesecake | lottirecipes.com

My favorite memory is baking this with my niece who loves licking the bowls and always requests the corner slice with the most caramel

Storage tips

Wrap leftover cheesecake tightly in plastic or use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. If you want to store slices for longer freeze them individually and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid storing with caramel on top as it can become runny in the fridge and is best drizzled right before serving.

Ingredient substitutions

If you need a gluten free option use your preferred one to one gluten free flour blend in the brownie layer. For a less sweet version swap half the granulated sugar in the brownie base with coconut sugar. Dairy free cream cheese can work for the upper layer but be sure to choose one with good consistency and flavor.

Serving suggestions

This dessert is already quite decadent but a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream can cut through the sweetness. For a festive touch sprinkle on toasted pecans or sea salt flakes over the caramel. I love pairing a slice of this cheesecake with fresh raspberries or orange zest for a burst of brightness.

Cultural historical context

Brownies and cheesecakes are beloved across American kitchens and this fusion takes inspiration from classic bake sale favorites and New York style cheesecakes. Salted caramel brings in a touch of trendiness from French pâtisserie. Making one feels like blending the best of traditional and modern dessert worlds.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Bake at a gentle temperature, allow to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar, and chill thoroughly before slicing.

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel works well as a finishing touch—just ensure it has salted notes for extra depth.

→ Should ingredients be room temperature?

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream to promote a smooth, lump-free batter.

→ What size pan is recommended?

A 9-inch springform pan is ideal for easy release and beautiful slices with distinct layers.

→ How long does chilling take?

Allow at least 4 hours of chilling, though overnight in the refrigerator delivers the best texture and flavor.

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Delight

Fudgy brownie forms the base for creamy cheesecake and a lavish salted caramel drizzle.

Preparation Time
30 mins
Cook Time
75 mins
Total Time
105 mins

Category: Desserts

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Yield: 12 Servings (One 23 cm cheesecake, cut into 12 slices)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Brownie Layer

01 113 grams unsalted butter, melted
02 200 grams granulated sugar
03 85 grams unsweetened natural cocoa powder
04 0.25 teaspoon fine salt
05 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 2 large eggs
07 62 grams all-purpose flour

→ Cheesecake Layer

08 680 grams cream cheese, softened to room temperature
09 100 grams granulated sugar
10 100 grams light brown sugar
11 59 milliliters heavy cream
12 4 large eggs, at room temperature
13 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract

→ Caramel Topping

14 120 milliliters (0.5 cup) salted caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven to 163°C. Coat a 23 cm springform pan with nonstick spray.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well blended. If warm, let mixture cool slightly. Stir in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in all-purpose flour until just combined.

Step 03

Spread brownie batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until surface begins to set but is not fully baked. Remove from oven, let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely chilled. Maintain oven temperature.

Step 04

In mixer bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, about 1 minute. Add both sugars and heavy cream, beating until fully combined and creamy. Scrape down bowl sides as needed. Add eggs individually, mixing just until incorporated after each. Stir in vanilla paste or extract.

Step 05

Pour cheesecake filling over chilled brownie base in pan. Gently tap pan on counter to release air bubbles.

Step 06

Place springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 163°C for 55-60 minutes, or until set and top is slightly dry to the touch with a gently jiggling center. Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake cool inside for 10 minutes.

Step 07

Remove cheesecake from oven and cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until thoroughly chilled.

Step 08

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

Additional Notes

  1. For a cleaner cut, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices.
  2. Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks.

Tools You'll Need

  • 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rimmed baking sheet
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Contains milk, eggs, and wheat