Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe
This Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake combines a rich, dense brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer on top, finished with a luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this indulgent dessert is baked in a springform pan for a smooth texture and an elegant presentation.
- Author: Bella
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 Layer
- 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
- Additional chocolate chips for topping (optional)
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides to prevent sticking.
- Make Brownie Batter: Melt 0.5 cup unsalted butter and combine it with 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 0.33 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 0.5 cup all-purpose flour, 0.25 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until smooth and fully combined.
- Bake Brownie Base: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until set. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: 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, then mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled brownie base. Bake again at 325°F (163°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly to the touch.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to help prevent cracking and to let it set gently.
- Chill Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool it completely at room temperature. Then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Make Ganache: Heat 0.5 cup heavy cream until it just begins to 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 ganache forms.
- Decorate and Serve: Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Slice and serve chilled for a decadent dessert experience.
Notes
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and clean edges.
- Letting the cheesecake rest in the turned-off oven helps prevent cracks.
- Chilling overnight improves the flavor and texture.
- Ganache can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; reheat gently before pouring.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Keywords: brownie cheesecake, fudgy brownie cheesecake, cheesecake with brownie base, chocolate cheesecake, dessert recipe, baked cheesecake, chocolate ganache cheesecake