Description
A rich, two-in-one dessert featuring a fudgy dark chocolate brownie base topped with a tangy, coffee-infused cheesecake layer. This make-ahead treat is perfect for entertaining or solo indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 blocks (450g total) full-fat brick-style cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tbsp hot water (for dissolving espresso)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter and sugar until combined. Stir in eggs one at a time. Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt; mix until just combined to form a thick batter.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, pressing down firmly. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese on medium speed until smooth (2-3 minutes). Scrape down sides.
- Add sugar and beat until combined. Add sour cream and vanilla extract; mix again.
- Dissolve instant espresso powder in hot water and let cool slightly. Add to the cream cheese mixture.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour cheesecake batter over the brownie layer and smooth the top. Optionally swirl with a butter knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake sit in the oven for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature to prevent lumps. Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added to avoid cracks. For a water bath, wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil and place in a roasting pan with hot water. The cheesecake tastes best after chilling for 24-48 hours.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 32
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: coffee brownie cheesecake, make-ahead dessert, espresso cheesecake, chocolate dessert, party dessert, easy baking