Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

Save this recipe on:

Imagine the perfect fusion of a rich, fudgy brownie base, a creamy cheesecake layer, and all the indulgent toppings of a classic hot fudge sundae. The Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that brings together the best of all worlds—deep chocolate flavors, velvety smooth cheesecake, and a drizzle of warm, luscious fudge. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and chunks of chocolate, each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

This cheesecake is perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply as a treat for chocolate lovers. The combination of a dense brownie crust and a light, creamy cheesecake makes for an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee, this decadent dessert will leave everyone craving more.

---

Why You’ll Love This Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

• A Dream for Chocolate Lovers – This dessert features a deep, fudgy brownie base with rich chocolate flavors in every bite.
• Luxurious Creamy Texture – The smooth cheesecake layer perfectly balances the dense brownie bottom, creating a luscious contrast.
• Easy to Customize – Add your favorite toppings like caramel drizzle, nuts, or even a cherry on top to make it uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just a weekend treat, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.
• No Need for a Water Bath – Unlike many cheesecake recipes, this one keeps things simple with a foolproof baking method.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake requires the right tools to ensure smooth preparation and flawless results. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Springform Pan (9-inch) – Essential for cheesecake baking, as it allows for easy removal without damaging the layers.
• Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a few bowls for mixing the brownie batter, cheesecake filling, and whipped toppings.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – A must-have for achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
• Whisk & Spatula – A whisk helps blend ingredients evenly, while a spatula ensures you scrape every bit of batter from the bowl.
• Parchment Paper & Non-Stick Spray – Helps prevent the brownie crust from sticking to the pan, making for a clean release.
• Oven & Cooling Rack – Proper baking and cooling are crucial for a perfectly set cheesecake.
• Knife & Hot Water – For slicing clean, professional-looking pieces without crumbling the layers.

---

Preparation Tips

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – Bring your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing for a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Line Your Pan Properly – Place parchment paper at the bottom of the springform pan to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overbeating the cheesecake mixture can introduce air bubbles, leading to cracks while baking. Mix just until combined.
• Pre-Bake the Brownie Layer – This ensures a firm base that holds up under the cheesecake layer without becoming too soft or soggy.
• Cool Gradually – Avoid drastic temperature changes. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open before transferring it to the fridge.
• Chill Before Serving – Allow at least 4-6 hours of chilling (preferably overnight) for the best texture and flavor.

---

Ingredients for This Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

For the Brownie Base:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for fresh whipped cream)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/2 cup chopped chocolate bars or chocolate shavings
• Optional: Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or maraschino cherries for garnish

---

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, then gently fold everything together until well combined. Do not overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly underdone. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the cheesecake layer.

---

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

---

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set at the edges.
3. Turn off the oven, slightly crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes to prevent cracks.
4. Transfer the cheesecake to a cooling rack and let it reach room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight.

---

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Drizzle warm hot fudge sauce over the chilled cheesecake.
3. Pipe or dollop whipped cream around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped chocolate bars or shavings on top.
5. Add optional toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or cherries for a classic sundae look.

---

Notes

• For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder in the brownie base.
• If you prefer a denser cheesecake, you can add an extra 4 oz of cream cheese to the filling.
• Chilling overnight enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
• Warm the fudge sauce slightly before drizzling, but avoid making it too hot, or it will melt the whipped cream.
• If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or chopped nuts between the layers.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overbaking the Brownie Base

• The brownie layer should be slightly underdone when it comes out of the oven. If it’s fully baked, it may become too dry and hard after chilling.

2. Overmixing the Cheesecake Batter

• Beating the batter too much introduces excess air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake. Mix just until combined.

3. Skipping the Cooling Process

• Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks. Never place a hot cheesecake straight into the fridge.

4. Not Using a Springform Pan

• A regular cake pan makes it difficult to remove the cheesecake cleanly. Always use a springform pan for easy release.

5. Forgetting to Line the Pan

• A parchment paper-lined bottom helps prevent the brownie base from sticking and makes serving easier.

6. Using Cold Ingredients

• Room-temperature cream cheese and eggs blend more smoothly, ensuring a creamy texture without lumps.

7. Not Chilling Long Enough

• The cheesecake needs at least 4-6 hours (preferably overnight) in the fridge to fully set. Cutting too early can cause it to collapse.

8. Overheating the Hot Fudge

• If the fudge sauce is too hot, it can melt the whipped cream and ruin the presentation. Warm it just enough to drizzle smoothly.

---

What to Serve With Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake?

The richness of this cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a variety of complementary flavors and textures. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

1. Fresh Berries

• A handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy and chocolatey layers.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

• Enhance the sundae experience with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream on the side.

3. Caramel Drizzle

• Add a sweet and buttery touch by drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice.

4. Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for an extra crunch.

5. Espresso or Coffee

• The bold flavors of coffee balance out the sweetness, making it a perfect pairing.

6. Dark Chocolate Shavings

• Enhance the chocolate intensity by garnishing with finely grated dark chocolate.

7. Whipped Cream & Sprinkles

• Give it a true sundae feel by adding extra whipped cream and colorful sprinkles.

8. Cherry on Top

• A classic maraschino cherry on each slice completes the hot fudge sundae look.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep toppings like whipped cream and fudge sauce separate until serving to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 3 months.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding toppings.

Storing Individual Slices

• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for easy single-serve portions.
• Reheat the brownie base slightly in the microwave for a warm, fudgy contrast to the cold cheesecake.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice)

(Based on 12 servings, without additional toppings like extra fudge or nuts.)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Protein: ~6g
• Fat: ~28g
• Saturated Fat: ~16g
• Sugar: ~35g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~200mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a boxed brownie mix instead of making the brownie base from scratch?

Yes! A boxed brownie mix works well for convenience. Just follow the package instructions and bake the brownie base for slightly less time to prevent overbaking.

2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a lower temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

3. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Absolutely! This cheesecake tastes even better the next day. You can make it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

4. What can I use if I don’t have a springform pan?

If you don’t have a springform pan, use a deep cake pan lined with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy removal.

5. Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of fudge sauce?

Yes, melted chocolate ganache or caramel sauce also work as a delicious topping alternative.

6. Why is my brownie base too hard?

This can happen if it’s overbaked. Make sure to slightly underbake the brownie base, as it will continue cooking when the cheesecake layer is added.

7. How do I get clean slices when cutting the cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping the blade clean after each slice for smooth cuts.

8. Can I use low-fat cream cheese or yogurt instead of sour cream?

Full-fat cream cheese is best for a creamy texture, but you can swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt if desired.

---

Conclusion

Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike. With its rich brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and indulgent sundae-style toppings, every bite is pure bliss. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a well-deserved treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy each slice with your favorite toppings and share the joy with family and friends!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: