Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

The Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫 is an irresistible celebration of chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and classic sundae toppings all wrapped into one glorious dessert. Imagine a fudgy brownie base layered with velvety cheesecake, then drizzled with rich, warm hot fudge, crowned with fluffy whipped cream and a cherry on top. It’s decadence that feels both nostalgic and fresh, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a personal treat. This recipe brings all the joy of a sundae and the comforting richness of cheesecake into one slice of pure happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this dessert is the first step toward success. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and appearance, from that chewy brownie base to the creamy cheesecake topping and luscious hot fudge drizzle.

• Brownie batter: Whether boxed or homemade, choose a recipe with high-quality cocoa for rich, deep chocolate flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the balance of saltiness in your batter perfectly.
• Cream cheese (full-fat): Essential for that smooth, creamy texture in the cheesecake layer.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Adds a subtle tang and keeps the cheesecake moist and velvety.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the chocolate.
• Eggs: Bind the cheesecake mixture, adding a tender structure.
• Vanilla extract: Gives warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
• Hot fudge sauce: Use store-bought for ease or make your own for that extra special touch.
• Whipped cream, sprinkles, and maraschino cherries: Classic sundae toppings that add visual appeal and delightful textures.
• Optional mix-ins: Crushed nuts or fresh strawberries can add freshness or crunch.

How to Make Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preparing your brownie batter following either your favorite boxed mix instructions or a homemade recipe using cocoa powder, melted chocolate, and butter. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and pour in the batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, just until the edges are set but the center still feels slightly soft. Allow this fudgy base to cool completely before moving on to the cheesecake layer, ensuring a perfect texture contrast later.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat 16 ounces of room-temperature full-fat cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar until completely smooth and creamy. Add two eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to avoid lumps. Next, mix in 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the texture is luxuriously smooth. This creamy, tangy layer will balance beautifully against the rich brownie below.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake batter gently over your cooled brownie base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. The center should be just slightly jiggly — not fully firm. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to set gradually, which helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture silky.

Step 4: Chill and Add Hot Fudge

Once the cheesecake has cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors deepen and the texture firm up perfectly. When ready to serve, warm your hot fudge sauce slightly and drizzle it generously over the chilled cheesecake. The hot fudge will seep into the cheesecake’s creamy surface, bringing a warm, gooey contrast to every bite.

Step 5: Decorate and Enjoy

Top your creation with fresh whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, and a bright maraschino cherry on each slice. If you want to get creative, sprinkle chopped nuts or add fresh strawberries for added texture and flavor twists. Now, dig in and savor the beautiful blend of sundae delight and decadent cheesecake indulgence that only the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫 can deliver.

How to Serve Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫

Garnishes

Whipped cream is a must to keep that classic sundae vibe alive. The sprinkles add a joyous pop of color and crunch, while maraschino cherries provide a bright, sweet finish that feels celebratory. If you’re feeling extra fancy, chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder can add an elegant touch too.

Side Dishes

This dessert is quite rich on its own, so consider pairing it with something light and refreshing, like a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for maximum indulgence. A hot cup of coffee or espresso also complements the chocolate and cheesecake beautifully, cutting through the sweetness with warmth and depth.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on elegant dessert plates drizzled with extra hot fudge sauce around the edges for a restaurant-style look. You can also portion this cheesecake into individual mini springform pans or ramekins, turning it into a personal-sized dessert that feels special and festive. For parties, arrange a sundae topping bar so guests can customize their slices with nuts, fresh fruit, or additional sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫 in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly covered, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Keep the toppings separate if possible to maintain their texture and freshness.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes well if you want to save some for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. For best texture, freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh hot fudge sauce and toppings.

Reheating

When serving chilled, there’s no need to reheat—just add warm hot fudge sauce at the moment of serving. If you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, you can briefly microwave individual slices (10-15 seconds) but be careful not to melt the cheesecake too much. Always drizzle with hot fudge right before serving for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed brownie mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using a boxed brownie mix is a convenient shortcut and works wonderfully here, especially if you choose one with good-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. Just prepare it as directed and bake as recommended.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute that brings a similar tanginess and moisture to the cheesecake layer. Just use it in the same quantity for similar results.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal because it helps you release the cheesecake easily without damaging its beautiful layers. However, a well-lined deep cake pan can also work in a pinch—just be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Gradual cooling is key. After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour before removing it. Also, using room-temperature cream cheese and avoiding overmixing helps maintain a smooth, crack-free top.

Can I make the hot fudge sauce from scratch?

Yes! Homemade hot fudge with chocolate chips, heavy cream, and sugar is fantastic and allows you to tweak flavors by adding espresso or sea salt. But if time is tight, a quality store-bought sauce also delivers great taste and convenience.

Final Thoughts

If you want to treat yourself or wow a crowd, the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe 🍫 is your new go-to dessert. It’s decadent yet approachable, combining all the best parts of a sundae and cheesecake into a single slice of joy. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become a cherished recipe you keep coming back to. So go ahead, dive into this chocolatey, creamy masterpiece and savor every luscious bite!

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