03/21/2025
Cheesecake: A Decadent Delight!
✅Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional but Recommended):
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
4 oz (115g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
✅Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk until fully combined.
4. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, then fold the mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
1. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Brownies
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)
1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer (do not boil).
2. Pour over chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer and refrigerate for another 30 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your rich, fudgy brownie base with a luscious cheesecake layer and a decadent chocolate ganache topping!