Description
This Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake features a rich, dense brownie layer topped with a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling. Finished with a luscious chocolate ganache, this dessert combines the best of two classic treats into one indulgent and elegant dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.33 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Extra chocolate chips for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Melt 0.5 cup unsalted butter and combine it with 1 cup granulated sugar. Add 2 eggs, 0.33 cup cocoa powder, 0.5 cup all-purpose flour, 0.25 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Bake Brownie Base: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until set but not fully cooked through. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces cream cheese with 0.5 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 0.5 cup sour cream, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the slightly cooled brownie base, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake Cheesecake: Return the pan to the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar, allowing it to cool gently to avoid cracks.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat 0.5 cup heavy cream until it reaches a simmer. Pour the hot cream over 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Serve: Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- Make sure to let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Use a water bath if you prefer even gentler baking, though it’s not necessary.
- Ganache can be made in advance and refrigerated; warm gently before pouring.
- Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownie cheesecake, fudgy brownies, cream cheese dessert, chocolate ganache cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe
