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Christmas Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 86 reviews
  • Author: Beverly
  • Prep Time: 0h 20m
  • Cook Time: 1h 0m
  • Total Time: 5h 20m
  • Yield: 10-12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Christmas Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is a decadent holiday dessert combining a rich chocolate cookie crust, smooth and creamy chocolate cheesecake filling studded with chocolate chips, and a luscious warm caramel sauce drizzle. The brownie-style cheesecake bakes to perfection with a fudgy texture and velvety finish, making it a festive treat to impress your guests during the holiday season.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Caramel Sauce Topping

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
  2. Prepare Pan: Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy release.
  3. Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and granulated sugar evenly.
  4. Add Butter to Crust: Stir in melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together.
  5. Press Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan creating an even layer for the base.
  6. Chill Crust: Refrigerate the crust while preparing the cheesecake filling to help it set.
  7. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  8. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and silky.
  9. Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth mixture.
  10. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk sour cream, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until blended.
  11. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the sour cream mixture to the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently until smooth.
  12. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter with a spatula to distribute evenly.
  13. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  14. Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly.
  15. Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 1 hour to finish setting gently.
  16. Cool to Room Temperature: Remove cheesecake from oven and let cool completely on the counter.
  17. Chill Cheesecake: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up fully.
  18. Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine caramel sauce and heavy cream; heat gently over low heat, stirring until smooth and warm.
  19. Remove from Pan: Once chilled, carefully release the sides of the springform pan and remove the cheesecake.
  20. Drizzle Caramel: Pour the warm caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  21. Serve: Slice the cheesecake and serve, enjoying the rich chocolate and caramel flavors perfect for the holidays.

Notes

  • Make sure cream cheese is softened completely to avoid lumps in the batter.
  • Do not overbake; the cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when done to ensure creaminess.
  • Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps it stay firm and prevents sogginess.
  • The caramel drizzle can be warmed slightly for easier pouring and a smooth finish.
  • This cheesecake is best made a day ahead to allow full flavor development and proper setting.
  • Use a water bath or place a pan with water below the springform pan for an extra creamy texture and to prevent cracking (optional).