Name: Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 16 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to truly dazzle at your next special occasion or just want to spoil yourself a bit, this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is an absolute showstopper. Imagine a fudgy brownie base crowned with cloud-like cheesecake, all finished off with a luscious salted caramel sauce that ties everything together in gloriously decadent harmony. Every layer brings its own magic, and the combination is something you’ll want to make again and again — trust me, one slice will not be enough!

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is in how each ingredient has its part to play — from richness and creaminess to that unmistakable chocolate punch and silky caramel finish. Gather these essentials to create dessert bliss right in your kitchen.

Unsalted Butter (1 cup): Gives the brownie layer richness and that trademark soft, fudgy chew.
Granulated Sugar (total 4 cups): Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers, plus forms the base of the glossy caramel.
Large Eggs (7 total): Bind and add structure to both brownie and cheesecake, while keeping everything moist.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warm, aromatic notes to both creamy and chocolatey layers.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Forms the sweet, sturdy backbone of your luxurious brownie layer.
Cocoa Powder (1 cup): Delivers that deep, real chocolate flavor we all crave.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon for brownie + 1 teaspoon sea salt for caramel): Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate and caramel flavors — don’t skip it!
Cream Cheese, softened (16 oz): Essential for that dense, dreamy cheesecake layer.
Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and creaminess, making your cheesecake unforgettable.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Turns your caramel sauce velvety smooth and pourable.
Unsalted Butter for Caramel (6 tablespoons): Adds richness and a glossy finish to your caramel sauce.

How to Make Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent any sticking disasters. Melt the butter, then whisk in the sugar until it looks thick and glossy. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each, followed by a splash of vanilla extract. Sift together your flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently stir them into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Pour this luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top before sliding it into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, just until the center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

While the brownie layer bakes and cools, grab a fresh bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Crack in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep things silky, then stir in vanilla and sour cream. By now, your brownie layer should be cool to the touch. Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture on top, smoothing gently to avoid disrupting that beautiful chocolate base. Bake again for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles just a bit — it’ll firm up as it cools.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce

Ready to make some magic? In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar, swirling the pan occasionally but not stirring. Watch as it transforms to a deep, golden amber. Quickly whisk in the butter, followed by the heavy cream and sea salt, being careful (it may bubble furiously!). Keep whisking until smooth and glossy. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature before using — this step ensures it’s thick yet pourable and won’t melt your cheesecake when you drizzle it on.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

After both your cheesecake and caramel sauce have cooled, release the cheesecake from the pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top, letting it spill over the edges in those tempting ribbons. For best slicing and flavor, cover and refrigerate the Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). This time allows all the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set perfectly.

How to Serve Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Garnishes

For that wow factor when serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt atop the caramel drizzle—it accentuates the salty-sweet notes and adds texture. A scatter of mini chocolate chips, a swoosh of whipped cream, or even a few chocolate curls can take your Caramel Brownie Cheesecake over the top, both visually and for palate pleasure.

Side Dishes

This dessert packs a decadent punch on its own, but it plays beautifully alongside something light and fresh—a bowl of juicy berries, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a dollop of crème fraîche adds contrast and sophistication to every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Slices look stunning served on rustic wooden boards, or go elegant with white plates and gold forks. You can also make Caramel Brownie Cheesecake in individual mini jars for a playful, personal touch at parties. Another fun idea: layer cubes of cheesecake, brownie, and caramel in parfait glasses for a trifecta of texture in a spoonable form!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Caramel Brownie Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge. Cover the cake (or individual slices) tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store for up to 5 days. The caramel may thicken as it chills, but it will still taste divine — just bring it to room temperature if you’d like a softer sauce.

Freezing

This dessert is a dream for make-ahead planning! Once cooled completely (without caramel sauce), wrap the cheesecake well in plastic and foil, then stash in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh caramel on top for the ultimate just-made taste.

Reheating

No need for reheating, but if you prefer warmer caramel, simply scoop a bit into a microwave-safe dish and heat for 10–15 seconds before drizzling over chilled slices. The cheesecake and brownie layers are best enjoyed at cold or cool room temperature, keeping that fudgy and creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or just want to simplify, a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce can step in beautifully—just opt for one with real butter and cream for best flavor.

What’s the best way to slice Caramel Brownie Cheesecake neatly?

For those picture-perfect slices, dip your sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This helps glide through both brownie and cheesecake layers smoothly, leaving clean edges.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You certainly can! Swap in your favorite one-to-one gluten-free all-purpose flour for the brownie layer, and the results will be just as delicious and satisfying.

I don’t have a springform pan. Can I use something else?

A springform pan makes for easy unmolding, but if you don’t have one, use a deep 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment high up the sides, leaving a generous overhang for lifting out after chilling.

Can I double the caramel sauce for extra topping?

Oh, yes! If you’re a true caramel lover (aren’t we all?), feel free to double the caramel sauce recipe. Keep extra sauce in a jar in the fridge and use for drizzling on ice cream, pancakes, or even your morning coffee.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love every glorious bite of this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake as much as I do—it’s pure comfort with a dash of wow. Whether you make it for a crowd or keep it all for yourself (no judgment here!), I promise it will earn a spot in your list of go-to desserts. Give it a whirl and prepare for rave reviews!

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 25 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 3 hours
Yield: 1 9-inch cheesecake 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent goodness of this Caramel Brownie Cheesecake that combines rich, fudgy brownie with creamy cheesecake and a luscious caramel topping.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter, stir in sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt; combine with wet ingredients.
Pour brownie batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream until smooth.
Pour cheesecake mixture over cooled brownie layer; bake for another 30-35 minutes.
For caramel, melt sugar until golden, then stir in butter and cream. Add salt.
Drizzle caramel over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American