Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake

Ingredients:

Brownie Layer

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

Toppings

• 3/4 to 1 cup hot fudge sauce
• Whipped cream
• Maraschino cherries
• Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate sprinkles

Instructions:

Brownie Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
4. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder just until combined.
5. Spread brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, just until set. Do not overbake.

Cheesecake Layer

1. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over the baked brownie layer and smooth the top.

Bake

1. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
3. Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Topping and Serving

1. Warm hot fudge sauce slightly and pour over the chilled cheesecake.
2. Top with whipped cream and maraschino cherries.
3. Add nuts or chocolate sprinkles if desired.
4. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.

Tips and Variations

• Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra richness.
• Substitute caramel sauce for hot fudge for a caramel sundae version.
• For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between each cut.