Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Fudgy Brownie Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
- Melt butter and semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave until smooth.
- Whisk in sugar, then beat in eggs one at a time.
- Fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely.
Cream Cheese Filling
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Beat room-temperature cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled brownie base.
Caramel and Assembly
- In a saucepan, heat sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber color.
- Remove from heat and whisk in heavy cream, then butter and salt until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Drizzle half the caramel over the cheesecake batter and swirl with a knife.
- Prepare a water bath by wrapping the pan in foil and placing it in a larger roasting pan with hot water.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked for 1 hour.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce before serving.
Notes
Ensure all dairy ingredients and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest filling.
Do not skip the water bath; it's essential for preventing cracks.
Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Do not skip the water bath; it's essential for preventing cracks.
Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture.
