Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie, only to discover a creamy cheesecake layer in the middle, topped off with a smooth and glossy hot fudge sauce. That’s what Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies deliver—decadence in every bite. This dessert is the perfect fusion of two beloved sweets, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense chocolate and cheesecake cravings.

The Perfect Brownie Base

The foundation of this dessert is a rich, fudgy brownie layer. Unlike cakey brownies, which are lighter and fluffier, fudgy brownies have a dense, gooey texture that pairs beautifully with cheesecake. To achieve this, it’s essential to use high-quality chocolate and just the right amount of butter and sugar to keep the brownies moist and rich.

Creating the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

The cheesecake layer provides a creamy contrast to the dense brownie base. To make the perfect cheesecake, you’ll need cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. The key is to beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. The sweetness of the cheesecake balances the rich chocolate flavors, while a touch of tang from the cream cheese adds depth.

Why Hot Fudge Is the Perfect Topping

Hot fudge sauce is the cherry on top of this dessert. Its silky smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor enhance the brownies and cheesecake without overpowering them. Warm fudge drizzled over the top brings everything together, adding an extra layer of richness that makes this dessert feel extra indulgent.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Brownie Batter

1. Melt the butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
2. Add eggs: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
4. Prep the pan: Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and pour the brownie batter evenly into the bottom.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and continue mixing.
2. Add the egg and vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and lump-free.
3. Layer the cheesecake: Carefully spread the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter, using a spatula to smooth it out.

Making the Hot Fudge Sauce

1. Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
2. Melt the chocolate: Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and butter. Continue stirring until smooth and glossy.
3. Add sugar and vanilla: Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.

Combining the Layers

Once the cheesecake layer is spread over the brownie batter, bake the dessert in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Baking Tips for the Best Results

• Avoid overbaking: Overbaked brownies can become dry, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
• Let them cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps the cheesecake layer set properly.

Serving Suggestions for Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies

For an extra indulgent experience, serve the brownies warm with a drizzle of the hot fudge sauce on top. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible dessert.

Storage Tips for Leftover Brownies

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
• Reheat for freshness: To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up the brownie and melt the fudge.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts or chocolate chips: For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter.
• Use flavored cheesecake: You can mix in different flavors to the cheesecake layer, like a swirl of raspberry or caramel sauce.

Healthier Options for Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies

If you’re looking for a slightly healthier version, you can reduce the sugar or opt for a low-fat cream cheese alternative. Using dark chocolate in the fudge sauce also adds antioxidants and reduces the sugar content.

Conclusion

Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate treat for any dessert lover. The rich, fudgy brownie base pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake layer, while the hot fudge topping adds that final touch of indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these brownies are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

1. Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
   Yes, you can use a boxed mix for convenience, but homemade brownies give a richer, fudgier texture.
2. Can I freeze the brownies?
   Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
3. How long should I let the brownies cool before serving?
   Let them cool for at least 30 minutes to allow the cheesecake layer to set properly.
4. Can I use milk chocolate for the fudge sauce?
   While you can, semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides a richer, less sweet balance to the dessert.
5. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
   Use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp paper towel between cuts to ensure clean edges.
   Yield: 14-15 Brownies

   Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

   

   Print

   Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie, only to discover a creamy cheesecake layer in the middle, topped off with a smooth and glossy hot fudge sauce. That’s what Hot Fudge Cheesecake Brownies deliver—decadence in every bite. This dessert is the perfect fusion of two beloved sweets, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense chocolate and cheesecake cravings.

   Prep Time 20 minutes

   Cook Time 40 minutes

   Ingredients

   • For the Brownie Layer:
   • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
   • 8 oz semisweet chocolate (chopped)
   • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
   • 4 large eggs
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
   • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
   • ¼ cup cocoa powder
   • ½ tsp salt
   • For the Cheesecake Layer:
   • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
   • ¼ cup granulated sugar
   • 1 large egg
   • ½ tsp vanilla extract
   • For the Hot Fudge Topping:
   • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
   • ¼ cup heavy cream
   • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
   • 1 tbsp corn syrup (optional for a glossy finish)

   Instructions

   1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

   2. Make the Brownie Batter:

   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
   • Stir in the sugar, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
   • Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

   3. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
   • Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie layer in the pan.

   4. Add Remaining Brownie Batter:

   • Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer and use a knife or spatula to swirl the two together slightly for a marbled effect.

   5. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
   • Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.

   6. Make the Hot Fudge Topping:

   • In a small saucepan, heat the chocolate chips, heavy cream, butter, and corn syrup (if using) over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy.
   • Pour the hot fudge over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly.

   7. Chill and Serve:

   • Allow the brownies to set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve and enjoy!

   Notes

   Brownie texture: For fudgier brownies, slightly underbake them and let them finish setting as they cool.

   Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

   Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chunks to the brownie batter for extra texture.