Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

If you love coffee, brownies, and cheesecake, then this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert that brings all three together in one decadent, indulgent treat. The base is a rich, fudgy brownie, topped with a creamy coffee-infused cheesecake layer, and finished with a velvety coffee ganache. This dessert is perfect for special occasions, coffee lovers, or anytime you want to impress guests with something truly spectacular. Ready to indulge in this triple-threat dessert? Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What is Coffee Brownie Cheesecake?

Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is a layered dessert that combines a fudgy brownie base with a smooth and rich coffee-flavored cheesecake filling. To make it even more luxurious, the whole thing is often topped with a coffee ganache, adding an extra depth of flavor and richness. This dessert has all the elements of indulgence—a chewy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and the bold flavor of coffee—all in one bite.

Ingredients List for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this decadent coffee brownie cheesecake:

For the Brownie Base:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Coffee Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules (dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water)
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, for a stronger coffee flavor)

For the Coffee Ganache (Optional, but recommended):

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules (optional, for extra coffee flavor)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
• Whipped cream
• Coffee beans

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake? Here are some options:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the brownie base and cheesecake layer.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil, vegan cream cheese, and coconut cream.
• Mocha Cheesecake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cheesecake layer for a mocha flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a caramel sauce drizzle over the top for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Chocolate Espresso: Intensify the coffee flavor by adding more espresso powder or coffee liqueur (like Kahlua) to the cheesecake layer and ganache.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, sift together ½ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup cocoa powder, ¼ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownie base to cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese and ¾ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup sour cream, and 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour.

In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules in 1 tablespoon hot water. Add this coffee mixture to the cheesecake batter, along with 1 teaspoon espresso powder for extra flavor if desired. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the coffee cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Place the pan in the oven and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This helps prevent cracks.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Once the cheesecake has cooled in the oven, remove it and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the cheesecake fully set.

Step 5: Prepare the Coffee Ganache (Optional)

In a small saucepan, heat ½ cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from the heat and pour the hot cream over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

For extra coffee flavor, dissolve 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules in 1 teaspoon hot water and stir it into the ganache.

Step 6: Add the Ganache Topping

Once the cheesecake is chilled, pour the ganache over the top and spread it out evenly. Allow the ganache to set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the Brownie Layer: Be careful not to overbake the brownie base, as it will bake further once you add the cheesecake layer. The brownie should be slightly fudgy, not fully set, when you take it out.
• Overmixing the Cheesecake Batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the cheesecake, which may cause cracks during baking. Mix just until smooth.
• Skipping the Cooling Process: Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent cracking. Don’t rush this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Coffee Brownie Cheesecake

• Chilled: Serve this cheesecake chilled from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
• Slice Cleanly: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get clean, smooth slices. Wipe the knife between each cut for best results.

Presentation Ideas for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake

• Chocolate Shavings: Add chocolate shavings or curls on top of the ganache for an elegant touch.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra indulgence.
• Coffee Beans: Garnish with a few whole coffee beans or a sprinkle of instant coffee granules for a bold coffee-themed presentation.

Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Chill Overnight for Best Results: For the ultimate texture, chill the cheesecake overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and the cheesecake to fully set.
• Prevent Cracks: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to help prevent cracking. Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes! In fact, this cheesecake is best made the day before serving. You can prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the ganache topping until the day you plan to serve it.

Can I freeze Coffee Brownie Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake. Once fully cooled and set, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the ganache starts to soften, you can pop it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving to firm it up again.

Can I use store-bought brownie mix for the base?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought brownie mix for the base. Just bake the brownies in a springform pan and follow the rest of the recipe for the cheesecake layer.

What if my cheesecake cracks?

Don’t worry if your cheesecake cracks! The ganache topping can cover any imperfections, and it will still taste delicious. Cracks usually happen when the cheesecake cools too quickly, so allowing it to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent this.

Conclusion

This Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. With a fudgy brownie base, creamy coffee-flavored cheesecake, and a decadent ganache topping, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake will satisfy your cravings for chocolate, coffee, and rich cheesecake all in one bite. Enjoy every indulgent slice!

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