Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Layer
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Mix the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt—in one bowl. In another bowl, melt the butter and combine it with eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet ingredients until a thick, smooth batter forms. Pour the batter into a lined springform pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until edges start to set but center remains slightly soft.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: While the brownie base bakes, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and eggs in a large bowl until smooth and lump-free. Stir in vanilla extract. Gently pour this mixture over the partially baked brownie crust, being careful not to disturb the base.
- Bake the Combined Layers: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 40 to 50 minutes. The cheesecake should be mostly firm with a slight jiggle in the center. Avoid overbaking to preserve texture.
- Add the Caramel Layer: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely. Pour a generous layer of warm caramel sauce evenly over the top, letting it seep into cracks. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Slice and Serve: Use a hot knife or dip the knife in warm water before slicing for clean cuts. Serve as is or topped with whipped cream, toasted nuts, or fresh berries for extra flair.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother mixing and fewer lumps.
- Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the cheesecake center indicates perfect doneness.
- Use high-quality homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for the best flavor.
- Cool the cheesecake completely before slicing to get clean layers.
- Consider baking the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (using gluten-free flour alternative)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: caramel, brownie, cheesecake, layered dessert, chocolate, creamy, indulgent