Brownie Bottom Cheesecake Recipe

If you’ve ever struggled to choose between a gooey brownie and a silky-smooth cheesecake, the Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is your dream dessert come true. Each bite is a celebration of chocolate decadence paired with that classic tang and creaminess we love in cheesecake, all brought together in one effortless creation. This luscious treat looks impressive at parties, but you’ll be amazed at just how approachable this recipe is, even for novice bakers. Imagine the smiles when you slice through that fudgy brownie base up to the rich, creamy cheesecake crown — trust me, you won’t have leftovers for long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need an endless pantry list for this showstopper; the ingredients are straightforward and each one earns its keep. Every item, from boxed brownie mix to full-fat cream cheese, is chosen to create the ultimate contrast: deep chocolatey richness beneath feather-light cheesecake. Let’s break down what you’ll need and a few tips for nailing each element.

• Boxed brownie mix: The reliable shortcut for a delicious, chocolatey crust with minimal fuss or measuring.
• Eggs: Crucial for setting both the brownie base and the cheesecake filling—use room temperature eggs for best mixing.
• Vegetable oil: Gives that iconic fudgy texture to the brownie portion, keeping everything moist and luscious.
• Water: Just enough to bring together your brownie mix—double check your box instructions for precise measurement.
• Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake; use full-fat and softened to room temp for smooth blending and richness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cheesecake and balances out the tang of the cream cheese beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: A tablespoon helps stabilize the cheesecake without affecting texture—don’t skip it!
• Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatics boost to the creamy cheesecake layer.
• Sour cream: Delivers extra creaminess and that signature gentle tang—opt for full-fat for the best results.
• Heavy whipping cream: Some is added to the filling for richness, while the rest is whipped for a dreamy topping.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream that crowns your cheesecake.
• Hot fudge or chocolate sauce: For that over-the-top, silky finish when serving.

How to Make Brownie Bottom Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving your trusty 9-inch springform pan a good greasing. For extra insurance, line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper—this makes serving a snap and keeps every last crumb in place. It’s worth taking your time here since the pan setup is the foundation of your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake adventure!

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Base

Mix up your boxed brownie batter according to the package instructions, which generally means combining the mix with eggs, water, and oil. Pour that glossy batter right into your prepared pan, smoothing into an even layer. Pop it in the oven for 15 minutes—just long enough for the top to set, but still delightfully fudgy in the center.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

While the brownie base bakes, turn your attention to the cheesecake filling. Using either a hand or stand mixer, beat softened cream cheese until it’s cloud-like and fluffy. Now, add in the sugar and beat again until everything is silky. Sprinkle in the flour, then add the vanilla, sour cream, and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Gently mix until just blended. Finally, stir in each egg by hand, one at a time, being careful not to overmix—the secret to that signature, crack-free cheesecake texture.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour your luscious cheesecake mixture over the warm, set brownie layer (no need to cool in between). Turn the oven down to 325°F, then slide in your pan and bake for another 45 minutes. After baking, let the cheesecake rest in the turned-off oven, door closed, for 20 minutes, then crack the oven door and cool for 30 minutes more. This gradual cooling step helps prevent cracks and ensures an ultra-smooth top.

Step 5: Chill, Top, and Serve

Take your cheesecake out and bring it to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge for at least two to three hours—patience is key for those perfect creamy slices! Right before you serve, whip up the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, pile it high on top, and drizzle generously with hot fudge or chocolate sauce. Your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is ready for its grand reveal!

How to Serve Brownie Bottom Cheesecake

Garnishes

Never underestimate the power of a good garnish! For Brownie Bottom Cheesecake, I love going all out with swirls of homemade whipped cream and a generous drizzle of hot fudge. A scatter of chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add a gorgeous finishing touch that brings extra texture and sparkle to each slice.

Side Dishes

As rich and decadent as this dessert is, some simple companions can make the experience even more delightful. Offer a few fresh berries—strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries bring a juicy, colorful contrast. If you’re hosting, a crisp glass of milk or hot coffee on the side is guaranteed to please and help balance the chocolatey intensity.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving individual mini cheesecakes made in muffin tins, or play with presentation by slicing thick wedges onto dessert plates with a playful swoosh of fudge. For a celebration, decorate the top with chocolate curls, edible flowers, or a dusting of cocoa powder. The bold layers of Brownie Bottom Cheesecake are so striking, it always feels like a special occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extra slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Brownie Bottom Cheesecake will keep well for up to 4 days, and in fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors mingle. Keep the whipped cream topping and fudge drizzle separate until serving for the freshest results.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake tightly in layers of plastic wrap and then foil. Stash in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and add those last-minute garnishes right before enjoying.

Reheating

While this dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you love a slightly melty experience, zap a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the brownie base. Take care not to overheat, as this can affect the texture of the cheesecake layer.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite brownie recipe, feel free to use it as the base for your Brownie Bottom Cheesecake. Just use enough to fit a 9-inch pan and bake it for about 15 minutes before adding the cheesecake layer.

Why does my cheesecake crack?

Cracking happens when the cheesecake cooks too quickly or cools too fast. Following the slow cooling method (leaving it in the turned-off oven, then with the door cracked) is key. Also, avoid over-mixing and don’t beat in the eggs—gentle stirring helps prevent too much air from getting into the batter.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should look set but the center may still jiggle slightly when gently shaken. Don’t worry—residual heat will finish the job as it cools, giving you that perfect creamy texture every time.

Can I make Brownie Bottom Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free flour. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t have to compromise on taste or texture.

What’s the best way to slice it cleanly?

For neat, bakery-style slices, use a long, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. This helps the blade glide through both the brownie and cheesecake with ease, ensuring pretty presentation every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a memorable dessert that will wow at any gathering or simply satisfy your deepest chocolate-and-cheesecake cravings, Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is the answer. This recipe strikes a perfect balance of gooey, creamy, and utterly irresistible. Gather your ingredients, invite someone special to share, and let this dessert work its magic in your kitchen!

Print