These Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups are a dessert lover’s dream. Each cup features a base of crumbled fudgy brownies, topped with a smooth, tangy cheesecake filling, and finished with luscious drizzles of chocolate ganache and caramel sauce. Perfect for parties, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress without the fuss of slicing a full cake, these cups are easy to make ahead and even easier to devour.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Base:
- 2 cups fudgy brownies, crumbled (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For the Toppings:
- ¼ cup chocolate ganache (melted chocolate + cream)
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- Mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Base
- Crumble the brownies into small chunks. If they’re too dry, mix in a bit of melted butter to help them bind.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of brownie crumbles into the bottom of each dessert cup or small glass.
- Press down gently to form a base layer.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Cups
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the brownie base in each cup, filling to about ¾ full.
- Smooth the tops with a spoon or spatula.
4. Add the Toppings
- Drizzle chocolate ganache and caramel sauce generously over the cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or colorful sprinkles for added texture and flair.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve chilled with a small spoon and a smile.
Tips & Variations:
- Make it Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake layer and top with crushed mint chocolates.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter into the cheesecake filling before layering.
- Fruit Fusion: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the brownie and cheesecake for a fruity contrast.
- No-Bake Friendly: Use store-bought brownies and skip the oven entirely for a quick, no-bake dessert.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love It:
- Perfect Portions: No slicing, no mess—just grab a cup and dig in.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These cups taste even better after chilling overnight.
- Customizable Canvas: Switch up the flavors and toppings to suit any occasion.
- Texture Heaven: Fudgy, creamy, crunchy—every bite is a celebration.
Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a visual layout for a dessert table presentation?