Velvety Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Swoon-Worthy Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Decadent chocolate meets creamy cheesecake in this irresistible brownie crust chocolate cheesecake recipe that promises pure indulgence.

Rich layers of fudgy goodness create a dessert that melts hearts with every single bite.

The chocolate brownie base provides a delightful crunch and intense flavor profile.

Each slice tells a story of delectable textures and luxurious ingredients blending seamlessly.

Chocolate lovers will swoon over the deep, velvety smoothness of this heavenly dessert.

Baking this showstopper transforms an ordinary evening into a celebration of sweet satisfaction.

One forkful promises to transport you to dessert paradise.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 7 hours

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 11

All You Need For Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake

For Brownie Crust:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and binds the brownie base together, choose unbleached flour for better texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor, opt for high-quality dark cocoa for deeper taste.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweetens and adds moisture, select fresh, clump-free sugars.
  • Butter: Creates richness and helps bind ingredients, use unsalted for better control of saltiness.
  • Eggs: Adds structure and helps everything bind, choose fresh room-temperature eggs.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall chocolate flavor, use pure vanilla for best results.
  • Baking Powder: Helps brownies rise and become fluffy, ensure it's fresh and not expired.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors, use fine sea salt.
For Cheesecake Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides creamy base, select full-fat Philadelphia-style cream cheese.
  • Chocolate Chips, Cocoa Powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor, use premium dark chocolate.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and balances cream cheese, choose fine granulated sugar.
  • Eggs: Helps set cheesecake and adds richness, use room-temperature eggs.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out chocolate flavor, use pure Madagascar vanilla.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps stabilize cheesecake, prevents cracking.
For Chocolate Ganache Topping:
  • Chocolate Chips: Creates glossy, rich topping, select high-quality dark chocolate.
  • Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides smooth, silky texture, use fresh, cold cream.

Essential Tools For Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Springform Pan (9-inch): Essential for creating and removing the cheesecake without breaking it.
  • Large Mixing Bowls: Perfect for preparing brownie crust and cheesecake batter.
  • Electric Mixer: Crucial for beating cream cheese and mixing ingredients smoothly.
  • Baking Sheet: Helps catch potential drips during baking.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of brownie crust from pan.
  • Heatproof Bowl: Needed for melting chocolate and making ganache.
  • Small Saucepan: Used for heating cream for ganache.
  • Whisk: Great for mixing dry and wet ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Sharp Knife: Helps create clean, precise cheesecake slices.
  • Toothpick: Checks doneness of brownie crust.

Directions To Make Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Brownie Base Foundation

Create a rich, chocolatey foundation using a decadent mix of melted chocolate and butter. Blend sugars and cocoa until the mixture becomes silky smooth. Carefully pour the batter into a prepared pan, ensuring an even surface. Bake until the edges are slightly crisp and the center remains tender.

  • Creamy Chocolate Layer

Whip cream cheese until luxuriously smooth and velvety. Gently fold in melted chocolate and a hint of cocoa. Introduce eggs with a delicate touch, mixing minimally to maintain the cheesecake’s delicate texture. Pour the luscious mixture over the cooled brownie base.

  • Baking Transformation

Place the pan in the oven, allowing gentle heat to transform the layers. Bake until the center sets with a subtle jiggle. After baking, let the cheesecake rest peacefully, developing its rich flavor profile. Chill thoroughly to achieve the perfect consistency.

  • Glossy Chocolate Topping

Create a silky ganache by combining warm cream with rich chocolate. Stir until the mixture becomes gloriously smooth and shiny. Drizzle the luxurious topping over the chilled cheesecake, creating an irresistible finish.

  • Serving Elegance

Carefully release the cheesecake from its pan. Slice with precision, revealing the stunning layers of chocolate decadence. Serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Tips For The Perfect Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Pro Baking Tricks for Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake
  • Room Temperature Magic: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky-smooth cheesecake texture without lumps.
  • Water Bath Wonder: Place the springform pan in a larger water bath during baking to prevent cracking and create a more even, creamy cheesecake consistency.
  • Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate chips or bars for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining and party planning.
  • Gluten-Free Transformation: Swap regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How To Present Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder dusting, or chocolate curls to enhance the rich chocolate flavor and add visual appeal.
  • Creamy Indulgence Boost: Top with whipped cream rosettes, using a piping bag for elegant presentation and adding a light, airy contrast to the dense cheesecake.
  • Textural Crunch Companion: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts around the edges or on top for a delightful crunch that complements the smooth cheesecake texture.
  • Fruity Freshness Accent: Add fresh raspberries or strawberry slices on the side to provide a tart, refreshing counterpoint to the intense chocolate flavor.

Keep Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake Fresh

  • Cool Chilling Strategy: Refrigerate the cheesecake for minimum 4 hours or overnight to ensure perfect texture and flavor development.
  • Slice Protection Technique: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut to create clean, smooth slices without crumbling.
  • Freshness Maintenance Method: Store covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping the cheesecake away from strong-smelling foods to preserve its delicate chocolate flavor.
  • Smart Freezing Approach: Wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which can be frozen for up to 1 month, allowing quick dessert enjoyment later.
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Velvety Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Velvety Brownie Crust Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 7 hours
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Chocolate cheesecake with a rich brownie crust delivers decadent dessert perfection. Layers of intense chocolate and creamy filling create an irresistible treat you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226 g/8 oz) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups (255 g/9 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
  • 1 cup (200 g/7 oz) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200 g/7 oz) packed brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • ⅔ cup (65 g/2.3 oz) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (125 g/4.4 oz) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 g/7 oz) granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (135 g/4.8 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
  • 3 tbsps unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tbsps all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsps vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (170 g/6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (240 ml/8 fl oz) heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Brownie Crust Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a springform pan with parchment paper. Melt chocolate chips and butter together, creating a smooth base. Blend in sugars, cocoa powder, vanilla, and eggs until fully incorporated. Gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing minimally. Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick shows minimal crumbs. Cool completely.
  2. Chocolate Cheesecake Layer: Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Beat cream cheese and sugar until silky. Fold in melted chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and flour. Add vanilla extract for enhanced flavor. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently to maintain a delicate texture. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the cooled brownie crust.
  3. Baking and Cooling Technique: Place the pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center sets with a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. Remove and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Chocolate Ganache Topping: Combine chocolate chips in a heat-resistant bowl. Heat heavy cream until it simmers, then pour over chocolate. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until a glossy, smooth ganache forms. Allow to cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  5. Serving Presentation: Release springform pan edges carefully. Use a clean, warm knife to slice, wiping between cuts for precise servings. Plate the cheesecake chilled, showcasing its decadent chocolate layers and luxurious ganache finish.

Notes

  • Prevent Cracking Cheesecake: Gentle mixing prevents air bubbles, ensuring a smooth, crack-free surface. Minimal mixing of ingredients maintains the cheesecake’s delicate texture.
  • Control Moisture Levels: Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for even blending. Proper ingredient temperature prevents lumps and ensures a silky, uniform consistency.
  • Master Baking Technique: Place a water bath around the springform pan to create humid baking environment. This technique prevents surface cracking and promotes even, gentle cooking.
  • Chocolate Intensity Adjustment: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate to reduce bitterness. Adjust cocoa powder quantity to customize richness and sweetness according to personal preference.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 34 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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