Caramel Brownie Cheesecake
Fudgy, Creamy, and Sweetly Irresistible
If you’re the kind of dessert lover who can’t decide between brownies, cheesecake, and caramel—this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is your dream come true. It starts with a rich brownie base, topped with a luscious vanilla cheesecake layer, then crowned with a silky caramel glaze and brownie bits. It’s indulgent, impressive, and utterly unforgettable.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something luxurious, this dessert is sure to wow anyone who takes a bite.
Preparation & Baking Time
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Preparation Time: 45 minutes
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Baking Time: 1 hour
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Chilling Time: 6 hours or overnight
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Total Time: 8–10 hours (including chilling)
Difficulty Level
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Skill Level: Intermediate
This recipe includes three layers—brownie, cheesecake, and caramel—each with its own prep. While the steps aren’t complicated, they do require a bit of patience and timing.
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
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115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
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170g (6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
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150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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65g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
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1/4 tsp salt
Cheesecake Layer:
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680g (24 oz) cream cheese, room temperature
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200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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120ml (1/2 cup) sour cream
Caramel Topping:
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200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
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60ml (1/4 cup) water
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120ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, warm
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30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter
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Pinch of sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)
Equipment Needed
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9-inch springform pan
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Mixing bowls
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Hand or stand mixer
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Saucepan
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Rubber spatula
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Whisk
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Parchment paper
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Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
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Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper.
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In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
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Stir in the sugar, followed by the eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla.
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Fold in flour and salt until just combined.
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Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–22 minutes, until just set.
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Let cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
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Lower oven temperature to 160°C (320°F).
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Add sugar and beat until combined.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides as needed.
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Mix in vanilla and sour cream until smooth.
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Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the brownie layer.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
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Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger pan. Add hot water to create a water bath (to prevent cracking).
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly.
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Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside.
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Remove from oven, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce
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In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir just until dissolved, then stop stirring.
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Let it cook until it turns a deep amber color (watch carefully—this takes 8–10 minutes).
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Remove from heat and slowly whisk in warm cream (be careful—it will bubble up).
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Add butter and stir until smooth. Add a pinch of sea salt if desired.
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Let caramel cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
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Pour cooled caramel over the cheesecake and spread evenly with an offset spatula.
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Optional: Chop leftover brownies or chocolate chunks and sprinkle on top.
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Chill for 30 minutes to set the caramel before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
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Slice with a hot knife for clean edges.
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Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Sprinkle with toasted pecans or flaky sea salt for extra flair.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approx. based on 12 slices)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Total Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 23g |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 36g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimated based on standard ingredients.