This caramel brownie cheesecake delight is an irresistible fusion of rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecake, finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. I love how the fudgy brownie base pairs perfectly with the velvety cheesecake layer — it’s pure decadence in every bite. Whether I’m making it for a party or just treating myself, this dessert always feels like a luxurious indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines two classic desserts — brownies and cheesecake — into one stunning creation. The caramel adds a smooth, buttery sweetness that ties everything together beautifully. It’s simple to make with a boxed brownie mix, yet the result looks and tastes like something from a high-end bakery. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion when I want to impress guests or satisfy a serious chocolate craving.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 box (18.4 oz) chocolate brownie mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream
1/4 cup chocolate shavings
Directions
- I start by preparing the brownie mix according to the package directions, then pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan or baking dish. I bake it just until set — slightly underbaked — since it will bake again with the cheesecake layer.
- While the brownie base bakes, I beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- I add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the brownie layer has cooled slightly, I gently spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top.
- I return the pan to the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 30–35 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- After baking, I let the cheesecake cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Before serving, I pour the caramel sauce over the top, spreading it gently for a glossy finish.
- I garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings right before slicing and serving for that irresistible presentation.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 8–10 slices.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: about 5 hours
Variations
I sometimes swirl the caramel directly into the cheesecake batter before baking for a marbled look. When I want a richer flavor, I use dark chocolate brownie mix or add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. For a nutty twist, I sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel layer. If I’m in the mood for something lighter, I drizzle a smaller amount of caramel and add a dusting of cocoa powder on top instead of chocolate shavings.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dessert tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. I avoid reheating it since it’s best served chilled or at room temperature. For longer storage, I freeze slices individually, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months — I just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Yes, I can use my favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base — I just bake it slightly less than usual before adding the cheesecake layer.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
I avoid overbaking and make sure the cheesecake cools gradually. I sometimes place a pan of hot water in the oven to create steam, which helps prevent cracking.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely, I often use store-bought caramel when I want to save time. Homemade caramel adds a richer flavor, though, if I have time to make it.
What type of pan works best?
I like using a springform pan for easy removal and clean edges, but any 9-inch pan works fine as long as it’s greased well.
Can I skip the whipped cream topping?
Yes, I can skip it if I want something a little lighter, but I find that the whipped cream adds a nice contrast to the dense cheesecake.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
It’s ready when the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly — it will firm up as it cools.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, I often make it a day in advance since it needs time to chill and tastes even better after resting overnight.
Can I use another type of topping instead of caramel?
I sometimes switch it up with chocolate ganache, raspberry sauce, or even peanut butter drizzle.
Can I add a crust under the brownie layer?
It’s not necessary, but I’ve tried adding a layer of crushed Oreos or graham crackers for extra texture and flavor.
How do I slice the cheesecake cleanly?
I use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut — it makes the slices look neat and professional.
Conclusion
This caramel brownie cheesecake delight is one of my favorite desserts to make when I want something rich, elegant, and satisfying. I love how the fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and silky caramel come together in one irresistible bite. It’s the kind of dessert that never fails to impress and always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
PrintIndulge in Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Delight
This caramel brownie cheesecake delight layers a fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake topping and a rich caramel drizzle for a decadent dessert that combines the best of both worlds — chocolate and cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours
- Yield: 8–10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 box (18.4 oz) chocolate brownie mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream
1/4 cup chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare brownie mix according to package directions and pour into a greased 9-inch springform pan or baking dish. Bake just until set but slightly underdone.
- While the brownie base bakes, beat softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Once brownie layer has cooled slightly, gently spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until cheesecake layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, pour caramel sauce over the top and spread gently for a glossy finish.
- Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use dark chocolate brownie mix for a deeper cocoa flavor.
Swirl caramel into the cheesecake layer before baking for a marbled effect.
Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast.
Ensure cheesecake cools gradually to prevent cracks.
Best served chilled or at room temperature for optimal texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 105mg