If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies with the creamy, dreamy texture of cheesecake, you’re in for a treat with this Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe. This dessert perfectly marries two classic favorites into one spectacular cake that will impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Picture a dense, chocolatey brownie base supporting a smooth, tangy cheesecake layer, topped optionally with a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s indulgence elevated to an art form, and I can’t wait to share every delicious detail with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but incredibly essential to crafting this delightful Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe. Each component plays a unique role, ensuring your dessert has the right balance of flavor, texture, and richness.
- 1 box (18.3 oz) brownie mix: The foundation of fudgy goodness that makes the bottom layer irresistibly chocolaty.
- Ingredients listed on the brownie box (eggs, oil, and water): Just follow the box instructions to bring the brownie batter to life.
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, lending a luxuriously creamy texture and subtle tang.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake batter perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 2 large eggs: Helps set and stabilize the cheesecake, creating that classic, silky consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Key ingredient for the ganache topping, optional but highly recommended for extra richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Combined with chocolate chips to create the smooth, decadent ganache that finishes this dessert to perfection.
How to Make Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s ready to bake your layers evenly. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easy—this step is crucial for preserving your beautiful layers.
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Brownie Bottom
Follow the brownie mix package instructions to prepare your batter. Pour it into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to create a uniform base. Bake this layer for about 20 minutes—just enough for it to set but not fully cook, since it will bake further beneath the cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Batter
While the brownie layer cools slightly, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly to incorporate each. Finally, blend in vanilla extract to infuse the batter with aromatic depth.
Step 4: Layer and Bake Together
Pour your cheesecake mixture gently over the warm brownie base, spreading it evenly so every bite includes both flavors. Bake the combined layers for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is mostly set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Step 5: Cool Gradually and Refrigerate
Turn the oven off, crack the door open, and allow your cheesecake to cool slowly inside for an hour—this prevents cracks and ensures tenderness. Afterwards, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, so the flavors meld and the texture firms up beautifully.
Step 6: Optional Ganache Topping
For an extra layer of indulgence, melt chocolate chips with heavy cream in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring until perfectly smooth. Pour this ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread it evenly. Let it set before slicing to add an elegant finishing touch.
How to Serve Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe with simple garnishes like fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of homemade whipped cream. These touches add color, contrast, and a fresh dimension that elevate each slice beautifully.
Side Dishes
This rich dessert pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments. Consider serving with a crisp green salad if serving as part of a dinner or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creamy decadence. The cool sides balance the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your cheesecake into generous wedges and serve on elegant plates with a drizzle of raspberry sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. For a fun twist, cut smaller squares to serve as dessert bites at parties, offering guests a delightful treat that’s easy to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture and rich flavors, making every bite just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that perfect consistency.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. If you prefer a slightly softer texture after refrigeration, simply leave slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for a sublime experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of brownie mix?
Absolutely! Using your favorite brownie recipe works perfectly. Just be sure the brownie layer is not overbaked prior to adding the cheesecake batter, to keep the layers distinct and the final dessert moist.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but if you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch cake pan lined well with parchment paper can work. Be extra careful when removing the cheesecake to keep it intact.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese and eggs for structure and flavor, so substitutions would require reformulating the recipe. However, with dairy-free cream cheese and egg replacers, some experimentation might yield a delicious alternative!
Why does the cheesecake have a jiggle when it’s done baking?
A slight jiggle in the center indicates the cheesecake is perfectly baked with a creamy, soft texture. The residual heat will set it fully as it cools, preventing a dry or crumbly outcome.
Is the ganache topping necessary?
Not at all! The Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe is delicious on its own, but the ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence and shine that makes it feel even more special. It’s a lovely finishing touch, not a must.
Final Thoughts
This Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe is a celebration of two timeless desserts coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking to wow guests at a special occasion or simply indulge your sweet tooth at home, this recipe has all the elements to become a new favorite. Give it a try and get ready to be amazed by how a humble brownie mix and a few simple ingredients transform into a show-stopping dessert that’s truly unforgettable.
Print
Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Brownie Bottom Cheesecake combines a fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this dessert features rich flavors and a velvety texture, ideal for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box (18.3 oz) brownie mix
- Ingredients listed on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ganache Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, typically combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to form the brownie base.
- Bake Brownie Layer: Bake the brownie batter for 20 minutes until it is just set but not fully cooked. This ensures the brownie layer remains fudgy after the cheesecake is added. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownie to cool slightly.
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Lastly, blend in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake batter carefully over the slightly cooled brownie base and spread evenly with a spatula to create a smooth top layer.
- Bake Cheesecake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cheesecake should be set around the edges with a center that is still slightly jiggly to ensure creamy texture after cooling.
- Cool in Oven: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for an hour to prevent cracks and promote even cooling.
- Chill Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is critical for the cheesecake to fully set and develop flavor.
- Prepare Ganache Topping: Place chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
- Set Ganache: Allow the ganache topping to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before slicing and serving, ensuring a luscious finish.
Notes
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and clean presentation.
- Do not overbake the brownie layer initially to keep it fudgy under the cheesecake layer.
- Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- The ganache topping is optional but adds a rich, glossy finish.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better mixing.
