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Caramel Brownie Cheesecake – Decadent, Gooey & Showstopping

If you’ve ever struggled to choose between a brownie, a cheesecake, or a caramel sundae… this dessert says, “why not all three?” This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake starts with a thick, fudgy brownie base, gets layered with creamy vanilla cheesecake, and is finished with golden caramel swirls. A drizzle of extra caramel, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings makes it look bakery-worthy. It’s indulgent enough for birthdays, holidays, or special gatherings, yet simple enough to make at home with a box of brownie mix and a few pantry staples.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
bake & Cooling & Chilling time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 14 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍫 Brownie Base:
  • 1 package brownie mix plus eggs, oil, and water as package directs
🍰 Cheesecake Filling:
  • 24 oz cream cheese softened (3 blocks)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
🍮 Caramel & Garnish:
  • ½ cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzling
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Oven
  • Knife for swirling caramel
  • Piping bag (optional for whipped cream garnish)

Method
 

Step 1 – Bake the Brownie Base
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions.
  3. Pour into a greased and lined 9-inch springform pan.
  4. Bake for about 20–25 minutes — until just set but still slightly fudgy. Cool while making filling.
Step 2 – Make the Cheesecake Batter
  1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
  2. Add vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix well.
  3. Add eggs one at a time on low speed until just combined (do not overmix).
Step 3 – Assemble & Swirl
  1. Pour cheesecake batter over cooled brownie base.
  2. Warm caramel sauce slightly and drizzle over top.
  3. Use a knife to swirl caramel into the cheesecake batter.
Step 4 – Bake the Cheesecake
  1. Place pan inside a larger roasting pan; pour hot water halfway up sides for a water bath (optional, prevents cracks).
  2. Bake 50–60 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until edges are set but center still jiggles.
  3. Turn oven off, crack door, and let rest inside for 1 hour.
  4. Remove, cool completely, then chill 4–6 hours (overnight best).
Step 5 – Garnish & Serve
  1. Before serving, drizzle with extra caramel.
  2. Pipe whipped cream around edges and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store covered in fridge up to 5 days.
Freeze (without whipped cream) up to 2 months — thaw overnight before serving.
Best enjoyed chilled — no reheating needed.
🥄 Variations
Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over caramel.
Nutty Version: Add toasted pecans or walnuts into brownie base.
Extra Chocolatey: Swirl melted chocolate with caramel before baking.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins with brownie bottoms for individual desserts.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I have to use boxed brownie mix?
No — you can use homemade brownie batter.
Will the brownie overbake when cheesecake cooks?
No — slightly underbake the brownie so it stays fudgy.
Do I need a water bath?
Optional, but it helps prevent cracks.
What kind of caramel works best?
Thick jarred or homemade caramel sauce.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, cheesecake is best chilled overnight.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, tightly wrap and freeze up to 2 months.
What if my cheesecake cracks?
Cover with caramel and whipped cream — no one will notice!
Can I skip sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a good substitute.
How do I cut clean slices?
Use a hot knife, wiping between cuts.
Can I double the caramel swirl?
Yes — for a gooey, sweeter cheesecake.
🏁 Conclusion
This Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is pure dessert bliss: fudgy brownie crust, creamy cheesecake, and caramel swirls in every bite. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s a decadent treat that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave something rich and irresistible.