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Decadent Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake

decadent fudgy brownie bottom cheesecake - featured image

A rich dessert combining a dense, fudgy brownie base with a silky, tangy cheesecake layer, perfect for crowd-pleasing occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Make the brownie base: In a medium bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Spread brownie batter evenly into the bottom of the springform pan about 1/2 inch thick. Bake for 15 minutes to set the base slightly.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth (2-3 minutes). Add sugar and beat until no lumps remain.
  6. Add sour cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined.
  7. Pour cheesecake batter over the warm brownie base and spread evenly.
  8. Bake the entire cheesecake for 45-50 minutes at 325°F (160°C). The center should jiggle slightly when shaken gently.
  9. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.
  10. Refrigerate covered for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  11. Run a knife around edges before releasing springform pan. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overmix cheesecake batter to avoid cracks. Use room temperature ingredients for smooth texture. Gradual cooling in the oven prevents cracking. A water bath is optional but can help if your oven is uneven. Use a springform pan for easy removal.

Nutrition

Keywords: brownie cheesecake, fudgy brownie bottom, creamy cheesecake, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser, chocolate dessert