Sink your fork into a dessert that brings together the fudgy richness of a brownie with the creamy indulgence of a classic cheesecake. This Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is a two-in-one treat that satisfies both chocolate and cheesecake lovers in one decadent slice. With a luscious chocolate ganache topping and a sprinkle of chocolate chips, it’s an irresistible dessert for celebrations, holidays, or simply when you want to impress.

The brownie base offers a chewy, chocolatey bite that contrasts beautifully with the smooth and creamy cheesecake layer above it. Each bite is rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a dinner party or just need a midweek pick-me-up, this dessert delivers in every way.
What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?
For the richest flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips in both the brownie base and ganache topping. Avoid milk chocolate, which can make the dessert overly sweet. A little espresso powder in the brownie layer can also enhance the depth of the chocolate.
Ingredients for the Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake
Butter – Provides moisture and richness in the brownie base.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownie layer and helps with structure.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give the brownie structure and the cheesecake a silky texture.
All-Purpose Flour – Adds body to the brownie base.
Cocoa Powder – Delivers that deep chocolate flavor for the base.
Espresso Powder (optional) – Intensifies the chocolate notes in the brownie.
Cream Cheese – The star of the cheesecake layer, giving it its creamy and tangy signature taste.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake.
Sour Cream – Creates an extra smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
Heavy Cream – Used for the chocolate ganache topping.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melt into the ganache and add texture on top.
How To Make the Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides. In a mixing bowl, melt butter and stir in sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, flour, and espresso powder. Mix until smooth and pour into the pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes until set but not overdone.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
While the brownie cools slightly, beat softened cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center slightly jiggles. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Add the Ganache Topping
Heat heavy cream until just simmering and pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly and pour over the chilled cheesecake. Let the ganache set before slicing.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesecake
For clean slices, use a warm knife and wipe between each cut. Serve chilled, allowing the flavors to shine. This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well—wrap individual slices tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
What to Serve With Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake?
Fresh Berries
The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the richness.
Whipped Cream
Add a light, fluffy topping to cut through the denseness.
Salted Caramel Sauce
Drizzle a little over the top for added indulgence.
Espresso or Coffee
A strong cup pairs perfectly with the chocolate and cheesecake combo.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve a small scoop alongside for temperature and texture contrast.
Candied Pecans
Add a delightful crunch and nutty sweetness.
Chocolate Shavings
A touch of elegance and extra chocolate.
Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?
If you love this Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake, you’ll definitely enjoy these other decadent creations:
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a fruity, tangy finish.
- Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake to bring berries and shape to your bake.
- Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for those who love a spicy swirl.
- Cream Cheese Flan if you want something creamy with a custard twist.
- No Bake Twinkie Pudding Cake for a fun, easy dessert that skips the oven.
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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the ganache or try it with dark chocolate? Maybe even swapped in peanut butter chips?
I love seeing how you make these desserts your own. Feel free to share tips, tweaks, or questions—let’s bake better together.
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Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re searching for the ultimate dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownie texture with silky, tangy cheesecake — this Fudgy Brownie Bottom Cheesecake is it. A two-layer delight with a smooth chocolate ganache topping, this showstopper is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and indulgent. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together chocolate and cheesecake in one epic bite. Whether you’re hunting for an easy recipe, a special-occasion dessert, or simply fresh food ideas to elevate your baking game — this one belongs in your collection of go-to favorites.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
16 oz cream cheese (softened)
2/3 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs (for cheesecake layer)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and grease the sides.
2. In a bowl, melt butter. Stir in sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, flour, and espresso powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour brownie batter into pan and bake for 18–20 minutes until just set. Let cool slightly.
4. Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar, vanilla, and sour cream. Mix in eggs one at a time.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over brownie base. Bake 45–50 minutes until center slightly jiggles.
6. Cool at room temp, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Heat heavy cream and pour over 1 cup chocolate chips. Let sit 2 minutes, stir smooth.
8. Let ganache cool slightly and pour over chilled cheesecake. Spread evenly.
9. Optional: Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Chill again briefly before slicing.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother cheesecake batter.
Let the cheesecake cool completely before adding ganache for clean layers.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: cheesecake, brownie cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, ganache cheesecake, easy dessert
