Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

Description:

Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines three beloved treats into one irresistible dessert. A rich, fudgy brownie base is topped with a velvety smooth cheesecake filling, and the entire creation is finished with a luscious caramel sauce. This indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors—creamy, chewy, and sweet with a hint of bitterness from the caramel.

Origin:

This dessert takes inspiration from two classic American favorites: caramel brownies and cheesecake. The combination of these treats results in a luxurious, layered dessert that is both familiar and unique. Caramel’s sweet, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake and the rich, dense brownie base, making this a dessert that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients (Serves 12-16):

For the Brownie Layer:

• Butter (unsalted): ½ cup (115 g)
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
• Large eggs: 2
• All-purpose flour: ½ cup (60 g)
• Cocoa powder: ¼ cup (25 g)
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Chocolate chips: ½ cup (90 g)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz (225 g)
• Granulated sugar: ¾ cup (150 g)
• Sour cream: ¼ cup (60 ml)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Large eggs: 2
• All-purpose flour: 1 tbsp (8 g)

For the Caramel Sauce:

• Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
• Butter (unsalted): 6 tbsp (85 g)
• Heavy cream: ¼ cup (60 ml)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp (for salted caramel)

Optional Ingredients:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: For topping (optional)
• Whipped cream: For garnish (optional)
• Dark chocolate shavings: For garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Brownie Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Bake the Brownie Layer: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Let the brownie layer cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Mix the Cheesecake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing until smooth.
2. Assemble the Cheesecake: Once the brownie layer has cooled, carefully spread the cheesecake batter over the top of the brownie layer, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour with the door slightly ajar.
4. Chill the Cheesecake: After it has cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into a golden-brown liquid. Be careful not to burn it.
2. Add the Butter and Cream: Once the sugar has melted, carefully add the butter and stir until melted. Then add the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Allow the caramel sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
3. Cool the Caramel: Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature before drizzling it over the cheesecake.

Step 4: Assemble the Caramel Brownie Cheesecake

1. Top with Caramel: Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the top.
2. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts, dark chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.

Tips for Success:

• Chill the Cheesecake: Be sure to let the cheesecake cool completely and chill it for at least 4 hours to allow it to firm up properly.
• Caramel Consistency: If the caramel sauce is too thin, simmer it a little longer until it thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of cream to loosen it up.
• Even Layers: Ensure that the brownie layer is evenly spread in the pan to provide a consistent base for the cheesecake layer.
• Serving: For clean slices, use a hot knife (dip it in hot water and wipe it dry) to cut through the caramel and cheesecake layers.

Recommendations:

• Pairing: Serve with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling or port.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The caramel sauce can be stored separately in a jar and reheated before serving.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Serves 12):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Sugar: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg

The Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the best of chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions, it’s sure to impress your guests with its luxurious layers and heavenly flavors. Enjoy every sweet bite!