Description
This decadent Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake combines rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake swirled with luscious hot fudge sauce, topped with whipped cream, nuts, and cherries for the ultimate indulgent dessert experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1 box (18.4 oz) brownie mix, plus ingredients listed on the box (usually oil, eggs, and water)
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, plus more for topping
Toppings
- 1/2 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or almonds
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Optional: sprinkles, for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions, including oil, eggs, and water as specified. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the slightly cooled brownie layer in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Drizzle 1/2 cup of hot fudge sauce over the cheesecake layer and gently swirl it with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Bake the assembled dessert for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open to allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour, which helps prevent cracking.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and enhance flavor.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream or whipped topping, drizzle with additional hot fudge sauce, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or almonds, and garnish with maraschino cherries. Optionally, add sprinkles for extra decoration. For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts.
Notes
- For easier slicing, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts to create smooth slices.
- You can substitute homemade brownie batter or hot fudge sauce if preferred for a more personalized flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven prevents cracks and keeps the texture creamy.
