Introduction
If you’re a fan of both brownies and cheesecake, prepare to fall in love.
This Hot Fudge Brownie Cheesecake combines two of the world’s most beloved desserts into one show-stopping creation.
Imagine a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese layer, all finished with a glossy blanket of homemade hot fudge. Every slice delivers the perfect harmony of textures — chewy, creamy, and silky — in one bite.
This dessert is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you need a little chocolate therapy.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
- Triple Layer Indulgence: Fudge brownie base + creamy cheesecake + silky chocolate topping.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Looks like a bakery masterpiece but easy enough for home bakers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Chills beautifully overnight for stress-free entertaining.
- Versatile: Add caramel drizzle, nuts, or berries for a custom twist.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
For the Hot Fudge Topping
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully combined.
- Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt just until combined — do not overmix.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until set but still slightly soft in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until creamy and smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie base and spread evenly.
- Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
3. Chill the Cheesecake
Once cooled, remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
This helps the layers firm up and enhances the flavor.
4. Make the Hot Fudge Topping
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
- Add chocolate chips, butter, and corn syrup (or honey).
- Stir until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly before pouring.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake
- Remove the cheesecake from the fridge and release it from the springform pan.
- Pour the warm hot fudge topping evenly over the top, letting it drip slightly down the sides for a dramatic effect.
- Refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set the topping before slicing.
Optional Garnishes
Top your masterpiece with:
- Freshly whipped cream
- Chocolate curls or sprinkles
- A drizzle of caramel or extra fudge
- A dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze slices individually (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Chef’s Notes
- For cleaner slices, use a hot knife (dip in warm water and wipe dry between cuts).
- You can make the brownie layer a day ahead and refrigerate before baking the cheesecake on top.
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter — it enhances the chocolate taste without making it bitter.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 29g
- Sugar: 36g
Rich, decadent, and worth every bite — enjoy in moderation and with a smile!
Why This Dessert Works
This recipe delivers the best of both worlds — the chewiness of a brownie, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the luxurious smoothness of hot fudge.
The contrast in textures makes each bite unforgettable.
It’s the kind of dessert that stops conversation at the table — everyone’s too busy savoring it.
Conclusion
The Hot Fudge Brownie Cheesecake is not just a dessert — it’s an experience.
Each layer brings something special: the dense brownie base, the silky cheesecake center, and the glossy fudge topping that ties it all together.
Whether for a celebration or simply to treat yourself, this recipe transforms a few humble ingredients into pure chocolate perfection.
Bake it once, and it’ll become a tradition.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: ~6 hours
Yields: 12 slices