Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

If you have a serious sweet tooth and love the classic combo of brownies and cheesecake, then the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is about to become your new obsession. This decadent dessert layers a rich, fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake center, all topped with a luscious hot fudge sauce that oozes heavenly chocolate goodness with every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that brings together the best parts of your favorite indulgences in one spectacular dish, perfect for celebrations or when you just deserve to treat yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing this dessert. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy tang, and indulgent sweetness that makes the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake so irresistible.

• Brownie batter: Use a quality boxed mix or make your own with cocoa powder and melted chocolate, ensuring rich fudgy depth for the base.
• Unsalted butter: Controls saltiness and adds moisture for a tender brownie layer.
• Cream cheese (full-fat): Provides the smooth, velvety cheesecake texture you want, so don’t skimp here.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake tangy and creamy; Greek yogurt can work if you run out.
• Eggs: Bind the cheesecake ingredients and give it structure, so add them one at a time for best consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, subtle but crucial for the cheesecake flavor.
• Hot fudge sauce: Either store-bought or homemade with chocolate chips and cream, this is the star topping that ties it all together.
• Whipped cream, sprinkles, maraschino cherries: These toppings give the sundae vibe, adding both texture and visual appeal.

How to Make Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownie Base

Start by mixing your brownie batter according to your chosen recipe or box instructions. Pour it evenly into a greased 9-inch springform pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until it feels set but still fudgy. Let it cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer to avoid mixing the two distinct layers.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a large bowl, beat full-fat cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is luscious and smooth. Using room-temperature cream cheese here really helps to avoid lumps.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake batter over your cooled brownie layer, spreading it out gently with a spatula. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake again at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when done. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour before chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Hot Fudge and Toppings

Once chilled, warm your hot fudge sauce slightly so it’s drizzle-ready—smooth and warm but not too runny. Generously pour the hot fudge over the cheesecake, then crown your masterpiece with fluffy whipped cream, sprinkles, and a classic maraschino cherry. This final touch transforms it from delicious to unforgettable.

How to Serve Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

Garnishes

Whipped cream is a must for that true sundae feel, but don’t stop there—maraschino cherries add a pop of sweetness and color while sprinkles bring a playful crunch. For extra flair, consider crushed nuts or chocolate shavings to add texture and a homemade touch.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a few fresh strawberries can elevate the experience even more. The cool ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm hot fudge, creating a delightful balance every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, slice the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake into bite-sized squares and serve them on cocktail picks for easy snacking. Or, plate individual portions with drizzles of caramel or raspberry sauce to surprise guests with extra layers of flavor and color. Presentation can make this rich dessert even more inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days without losing its flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to make this dessert ahead of time well beyond a few days, freeze the whole cheesecake or individual slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

While cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer, you can warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to take the chill off before adding hot fudge. Be careful not to overheat or it could affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different chocolate base instead of brownies?

Absolutely! While brownies provide a rich, fudgy foundation, you could experiment with chocolate cookie crust or even a dense chocolate cake base. Just keep in mind the baking times and textures will vary.

Is it okay to substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works perfectly as a tangy substitute to sour cream and can make the cheesecake a little lighter while keeping it creamy and smooth.

Can I make the hot fudge sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade hot fudge is simple to make with chocolate chips, heavy cream, and sugar—and you can customize it by adding espresso or a pinch of sea salt for extra depth.

How long should I chill the cheesecake before adding the fudge?

For the best results, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal. This allows the layers to set properly and makes drizzling hot fudge easier without melting the cheesecake.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

No worries! Use a deep cake pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Just be gentle when unmolding the cheesecake, as it won’t have the springform’s convenience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake that combines the best of multiple dessert worlds into one unforgettable bite. From the fudgy brownie base to the creamy cheesecake middle and that irresistible hot fudge topping, it feels like a celebration in every slice. Give this recipe a go—you’ll be sharing it with friends (and maybe keeping a few bites all to yourself).

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