Indulgent Brownie Cherry Cheesecake: A Dessert Lover’s Dream

Introduction

Why settle for one dessert when you can combine two? This Brownie Cherry Cheesecake merges the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, topped with a luscious cherry sauce. It’s the ultimate dessert mashup that’s guaranteed to impress. Ready to bake this masterpiece? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup cherry preserves
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Optional: Chopped brownie pieces for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Brownie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, just until set. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy and smooth.
2. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled brownie base.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill it halfway with hot water (water bath method).
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Cherry Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, cherry preserves, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens.
3. Let the topping cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
2. Spoon the cherry topping over the cheesecake.
3. Garnish with chopped brownie pieces and fresh cherries for a stunning presentation.

Tips for Success

• Brownie Texture: Slightly underbake the brownie base to keep it fudgy.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a silky smooth filling.
• Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better when made a day in advance.

Conclusion

This Brownie Cherry Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts, offering rich flavors and textures in every bite. Whether it’s for a special celebration or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and let us know how it turned out!