If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy a brownie, a cheesecake, and a hot fudge sundae all at once, this dessert makes that dream come true. This Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is a showstopping, three-layer creation that blends caramel-soft cheesecake, a decadent brownie bottom, and a glossy blanket of hot fudge on top. Every slice delivers layers of flavor that feel nostalgic, indulgent, and downright irresistible.
Whether you’re planning a birthday dessert, pulling out all the stops for a holiday table, or celebrating a simple weekend with something sweet, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. One bite and everyone will swear you bought it from a bakery.
Table of Contents
Why This Dessert is Unforgettable
This is the kind of dessert guests talk about long after the last forkful. Here’s why:
- Three desserts in one — a brownie, creamy cheesecake, and hot fudge sundae topping.
- Luxuriously smooth texture from the silky cheesecake filling.
- Fudgy, chocolatey base perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Perfect for special occasions and guaranteed to get compliments.
- Easily customizable with your favorite sundae add-ins.
Ingredients
Makes one 9-inch cheesecake (12–14 slices)
For the Brownie Base
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Hot Fudge Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
- Chopped nuts
- Sprinkles
- Crushed waffle cone pieces
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
- Oven
How to Make It
Every layer of this cheesecake adds flavor, texture, and richness. Follow these steps for flawless results.
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup flour
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- In a separate bowl, mix:
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat together:
- 32 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Mix until creamy and smooth.
- Add:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 eggs, one at a time, mixing between additions
- Stir in:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie base.
- Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Hot Fudge Topping
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Let cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake.
- Spread evenly and chill for 30 minutes to set.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Right before serving, top with your favorite sundae toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
- Chopped nuts
- Sprinkles
- Crushed waffle cones
Use a warm knife for perfect slices. Serve chilled and enjoy each decadent layer.
Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Bake Time: 65 minutes
- Chill Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: ~6 hours
- Yield: 12–14 slices
- Calories: ~550 per slice
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for a velvety filling.
- Don’t overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly.
- Chill thoroughly for the smoothest texture.
- Use a water bath if you want fewer cracks.
- Customize freely with your favorite sundae flavors!
Fun Variations
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add streaks of peanut butter to the cheesecake filling.
- Mint Chocolate: Swap vanilla for mint extract; top with crushed Andes mints.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel over the fudge layer and finish with sea salt.
- Oreo Crust: Replace the brownie layer with crushed Oreos.
- Mini Versions: Bake in muffin tins for personal-sized cheesecakes (20–25 min).
Perfect for Any Celebration
This Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake steals the spotlight at:
- Birthdays
- Holidays
- Dinner parties
- Potlucks
- Special nights at home
Final Thoughts
This indulgent dessert blends three beloved classics into one incredible creation. From the fudgy brownie base to the rich cheesecake center and the glossy hot fudge topping, every layer is pure decadence. Whether you’re baking it for a big event or as a treat-yourself moment, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress, delight, and disappear slice by slice.