Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Bliss (Printable version)

Rich fudgy brownie meets creamy cheesecake topped with luscious caramel for the ultimate decadent dessert.

# What you need:

→ Brownie Base

01 - ½ cup unsalted butter
02 - ¾ cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
05 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
06 - ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 - ¼ tsp salt

→ Cheesecake Layer

08 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
09 - ½ cup granulated sugar
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
12 - ¼ cup sour cream

→ Caramel Topping

13 - ¾ cup soft caramels, unwrapped
14 - 2 tbsp heavy cream

# How To:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until glossy. Sift in flour, cocoa, and salt. Mix just until combined. Spread evenly in the pan.
03 - With an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well, then add vanilla and sour cream. Pour evenly over the brownie layer.
04 - Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is just set and edges are lightly golden. Cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.
05 - In a saucepan or microwave, melt caramels with heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Pour over chilled cheesecake and spread gently.
06 - Chill an additional 30 minutes until caramel is set. Slice into bars and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Three layers of pure dessert satisfaction in every single bite.
  • The fudgy brownie base prevents the cheesecake from being too rich.
  • That homemade caramel topping transforms good into absolutely unforgettable.
  • These bars look impressive but are easier than making three separate desserts.
02 -
  • The cheesecake layer should still have a slight wobble in the center when you take it out.
  • Room temperature ingredients prevent lumps and ensure smooth layers.
  • Chilling the bars before adding caramel prevents it from melting right through.
  • Use a hot knife wiped clean between cuts for the most beautiful slices.
03 -
  • Run your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between every single slice for picture perfect bars.
  • If the caramel thickens too much while working with it microwave for just 10 seconds to loosen it up.