16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
For the Caramel Swirl:
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped pecans
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep & Bake the Brownie Base
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix brownie batter according to package instructions.
Spread half the batter into the pan (save the rest for later).
Bake for 15 mins, then let cool slightly.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream; mix until creamy.
3️⃣ Layer & Swirl
Pour cheesecake filling over the baked brownie layer.
Dollop remaining brownie batter on top, then swirl with a knife.
Drizzle caramel sauce and swirl gently.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Bake for 40-45 mins until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cool 1 hour inside (prevents cracks!).
Chill at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
5️⃣ Serve & Swoon!
Drizzle with extra caramel and sea salt flakes.
Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake
🔸 Room-temperature ingredients – Prevents lumps in the filling.
🔸 Don’t overmix – Too much air causes cracks.
🔸 Water bath option – Wrap pan in foil and bake in a water-filled tray for ultra-creamy texture.
🔸 Storage – Keeps for 5 days in the fridge or 1 month frozen.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✨ With coffee – The perfect pairing!
✨ Holiday centerpiece – Impressive for birthdays or Christmas.
✨ À la mode – Add vanilla ice cream for extra decadence.
🤔 FAQ – Your Questions Answered!
Q: Can I use homemade brownies?
A: Yes! Use your favorite recipe (bake the base layer first).
Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?
A: Overbaking or sudden temperature changes. Water baths help!
Q: Can I make it without caramel?
A: Yes! Swap for chocolate ganache or raspberry sauce.
