I have to tell you—there comes a time in every food lover’s life when you stumble upon a culinary masterpiece that strikes a nostalgic chord deep within your soul. For me, that revelation came through a slice of brownie cheesecake.
Picture this: a velvety cheesecake layer resting atop a fudgy brownie base. I swear I heard angels sing the moment I took the first bite. Today, I’m going to take you on a delicious trip into the world of brownie cheesecake.
What is Brownie Cheesecake?
Let’s break it down, shall we? Imagine a classic cheesecake—a rich, creamy delight made from cream cheese, sugar, and eggs. Now, think of a brownie—rich, chocolatey, chewy, and decadent.
Now, combine these two heavenly confections into one. You get brownie cheesecake—a dessert that transcends traditional boundaries. It’s a glorious balance of smooth and creamy topped on a chewy brownie base. Trust me, when it comes to dessert, this one takes the cake.
Why You’ll Love This Brownie Cheesecake
If you’ve ever wondered why so many people rave about this dessert, let me enlighten you. The harmony of flavors and textures is simply unmatched.
The brownie layer provides a chocolatey depth, while the cheesecake offers a sweet tanginess that dances in your mouth. And let’s not forget the excitement of baking!
This dessert is perfect for any occasion. Birthdays, dinner parties, or just a Tuesday night—you name it.
People will rave about it. Imagine the satisfaction of serving something so beautiful and delicious that your friends and family can’t stop talking about it. Plus, it looks stunning when you cut into it. You can’t help but feel proud, like you just ran a marathon!
The Ingredients
To create this sweet delight, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.
Brownie Layer:
- 85 g bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 140 g unsalted butter, softened
- 120 g fine white sugar
- 120 g light muscovado sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 30 g Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 60 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Cheesecake Layer:
- 600 g full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 220 ml warm heavy cream
- 150 g superfine sugar
- 120 g high-quality white chocolate, melted
- 45 g cornstarch (or cornflour)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 small lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper. You want to make sure your brownie will come out easily after baking.
Melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together gently in a double boiler or microwave. Mix until smooth. Let that mixture cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together fine white sugar, light muscovado sugar, and the warm chocolate mixture until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Next, sift the Dutch-process cocoa powder and all-purpose flour over the chocolate mixture. Add the espresso powder and flaky sea salt. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want fudgy brownies, not dry ones!
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan. Make sure you spread it evenly. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Set aside and let cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This can take a couple of minutes, so don’t rush.
Gradually add the superfine sugar and continue mixing until incorporated. Pour in the warm heavy cream and melted white chocolate, followed by the cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth and silky.
You should have a luscious cheesecake filling ready to go. Now, pour this heavenly mixture over the cooled brownie layer in the springform pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake in a water bath. This step keeps the cheesecake moist and helps prevent cracking. Wrap the bottom of your springform pan in aluminum foil to avoid water seeping in. Place it in a larger baking pan filled with hot water.
Bake for about 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. After that, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you’re patient.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips I’ve learned while perfecting this recipe:
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures a smooth mixture and helps incorporate air for that perfect texture.
- Don’t skip the water bath. It really does make a difference in texture.
- Let it cool in the oven. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking.
- Invest in quality chocolate. It truly enhances the flavors.
- Chill well before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully over time.
Can I Store Brownie Cheesecake?
Absolutely! Brownie cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
You can store it for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, try freezing it. Wrap the slices tightly in foil, then place them in a freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy again.
What Can I Serve with Brownie Cheesecake?
Pairing your brownie cheesecake with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing touch.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top never goes amiss.
- Chocolate sauce: Drizzle over the top for extra indulgence.
- Espresso or coffee: The bitter notes pair well with the sweetness.
- Mint leaves: A fresh garnish adds a pop of color and flavor.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Nutty Brownie Cheesecake: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer for crunch.
- Marble Cheesecake: Swirl your cheesecake batter with extra brownie batter before baking.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a creamy, nutty taste.
- Oreos: Crush Oreo cookies into the brownie layer or use them as a crust for added flavor.
- Fruit Topping: Top with a layer of fruit compote or fresh fruit for a burst of brightness.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this delicious journey through brownie cheesecake. It’s a recipe that perfectly blends creamy and fudgy, making it an undeniable hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this dessert invites you to indulge and enjoy.
I challenge you to whip this up for your next gathering. Watch as faces light up with surprise and delight!
Let’s face it; brownie cheesecake is like a warm hug wrapped in chocolate, and who wouldn’t want that? So put on your apron, embrace the mess, and most importantly—have fun! Happy baking!
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Brownie Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
I have to tell you—there comes a time in every food lover’s life when you stumble upon a culinary masterpiece that strikes a nostalgic chord deep within your soul. For me, that revelation came through a slice of brownie cheesecake.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
Cheesecake Layer:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper. You want to make sure your brownie will come out easily after baking.
Melt the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together gently in a double boiler or microwave. Mix until smooth. Let that mixture cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together fine white sugar, light muscovado sugar, and the warm chocolate mixture until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Next, sift the Dutch-process cocoa powder and all-purpose flour over the chocolate mixture. Add the espresso powder and flaky sea salt. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want fudgy brownies, not dry ones!
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan. Make sure you spread it evenly. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Set aside and let cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
-
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This can take a couple of minutes, so don’t rush.
Gradually add the superfine sugar and continue mixing until incorporated. Pour in the warm heavy cream and melted white chocolate, followed by the cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth and silky.
You should have a luscious cheesecake filling ready to go. Now, pour this heavenly mixture over the cooled brownie layer in the springform pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
-
Bake the cheesecake in a water bath. This step keeps the cheesecake moist and helps prevent cracking. Wrap the bottom of your springform pan in aluminum foil to avoid water seeping in. Place it in a larger baking pan filled with hot water.
Bake for about 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. After that, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you're patient.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 408kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24.1g38%
- Saturated Fat 11.6g58%
- Cholesterol 88mg30%
- Sodium 264mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 43g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 29g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures a smooth mixture and helps incorporate air for that perfect texture.
- Don’t skip the water bath. It really does make a difference in texture.
- Let it cool in the oven. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking.
- Invest in quality chocolate. It truly enhances the flavors.
- Chill well before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully over time.
