Here’s a 🍫🍨 Brownie Sundae Cheesecake recipe with detailed steps and FAQs so you can make this indulgent dessert with confidence:
🍫🍨 Brownie Sundae Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
(or make homemade brownies if you prefer)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup hot fudge sauce (warmed slightly)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 ½ cups whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, like pecans or walnuts)
- ½ cup sprinkles
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Extra brownie chunks, for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Prepare brownie batter as directed and spread into the pan.
- Bake until edges are set but center is slightly underbaked (about 20–25 min).
- Let cool completely while making cheesecake.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Blend in sour cream and vanilla until creamy.
- Pour batter over cooled brownie layer.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Wrap outside of springform pan in foil (for a water bath).
- Place in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up sides.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 min, until center is just set.
- Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest 1 hr.
- Remove, cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hrs (overnight best).
4. Assemble the Sundae Topping
- Spread warm hot fudge and caramel over chilled cheesecake.
- Pipe or dollop whipped cream around edges.
- Sprinkle nuts and colorful sprinkles on top.
- Add extra brownie chunks.
- Garnish each slice with a cherry.
🍴 Serving
- Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
- Serve chilled, but let sit at room temp 10 min before eating for creaminess.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought brownies for the base?
✅ Yes! Just press them into the bottom of the pan for a shortcut.
Q2: Do I need the water bath?
A water bath helps prevent cracks, but if you don’t mind a rustic look, bake without it and cover cracks later with toppings.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cheesecake sets best when chilled overnight. You can prepare it 2–3 days in advance and add sundae toppings just before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze brownie sundae cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap slices tightly in plastic + foil, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Q5: What if my brownie base overbakes?
Slightly underbake the brownie layer since it will bake again with cheesecake. If too firm, drizzle extra fudge when serving for softness.
Q6: Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Try crushed Oreos, peanut butter drizzle, or mini M&Ms for fun variations.
Would you like me to also give you a no-bake version of this Brownie Sundae Cheesecake (with a chilled brownie crust instead of baking)?