Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake: Easy Indulgence!

Name: Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Brownie Mix; 16 oz (450g) Cream Cheese; 1 cup (200g) Granulated Sugar; 1 cup (240g) Sour Cream; 3 large Eggs; Hot Fudge Sauce; Vanilla Ice Cream

Posted on August 5, 2025

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Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the best of everything? The Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is a glorious treat that brings together rich brownie layers, creamy cheesecake, and luscious hot fudge. Honestly, it’s like a party in your mouth! This dessert is perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in when you need a little indulgence. With its decadent appearance and delightful taste, you’ll want to make this again and again. Plus, the combination of textures and flavors will have your friends and family begging for more!

Let’s face it, the experience of digging into a slice of this cheesecake is something special. The crunchy brownie base gives way to a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, all drizzled with warm hot fudge and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that has become a favorite in my household. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers!

Why You Will Love this Recipe

The origins of this dessert blend classic American flavors that many of us grew up with. Cheesecake has been a beloved dessert for centuries, and brownies are a staple in many homes. Combining these two favorites into one luscious creation? Pure genius! I remember the first time I tasted a hot fudge sundae—it was a hot summer day at the local ice cream shop, and I was in love. This recipe captures that nostalgic joy, taking it a step further with the addition of rich brownie and creamy cheesecake layers.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to get it just right. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply when you want to treat yourself. The beauty of this dessert is that it can be made any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer evening or a chilly winter night, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face. And let’s not forget about the joy of sharing it with loved ones—there’s something special about watching their eyes light up as they take that first bite!

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s break down the main ingredients you’ll need for this Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake:

Brownie Mix: You can go with a store-bought mix for convenience or make your own from scratch. If choosing the latter, look for a recipe that yields fudgy brownies for the best base. I prefer a mix with at least 60% cocoa for that rich chocolate flavor.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is essential for a creamy texture. Always let it sit at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but the flavor may vary slightly.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typically used, but brown sugar can add a deeper flavor to both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds moisture and tang to the cheesecake. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if you need a lighter option.
Eggs: These help bind everything together. Make sure they are at room temperature for the best results.
Hot Fudge Sauce: You can make your own or buy a jar from the store. Either way, it should be warm when drizzled over the cheesecake for that gooey effect!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic topping! You can switch it up with other flavors, like caramel or coffee, if you want to get adventurous.

When selecting your ingredients, always look for high-quality options. Fresh ingredients yield the best flavors. For example, try to find a brownie mix made with real chocolate. And if you’re in the mood to experiment, feel free to substitute nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the brownie layer for an added crunch!

Equipment Needed

Before you dive in, here’s a quick list of the equipment you’ll need:

9-inch springform pan: This helps create a beautiful, removable edge for your cheesecake.
Mixer: A stand or hand mixer works great for blending your cheesecake batter.
Mixing bowls: Make sure you have a few on hand for combining ingredients.
Spatula: For scraping down the sides of your mixing bowls.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so don’t skip this!
Cooling rack: Essential for cooling your brownies before layering.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate if you choose to make brownies from scratch.

While you can invest in fancy equipment, most of the tools listed are quite common and should fit into any kitchen setup. Just remember to take care of your springform pan—it’s a gem that will serve you well for many cheesecakes to come!

Preparation Method

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Brownie Base: In a mixing bowl, prepare your brownie mix according to package instructions (or your from-scratch recipe). Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz (450g) cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Add 1 cup (240g) sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
Add the Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix!
Layer the Cheesecake: Once the brownie base is cool, pour the cheesecake filling over the brownie layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the oven for about 50-60 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Hot Fudge: If making homemade hot fudge, do this once the cheesecake is chilled. Otherwise, you can warm up your store-bought sauce in a microwave-safe bowl.
Serve: When you’re ready to serve, drizzle warm hot fudge over the cheesecake and top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

As you prepare this dessert, you’ll notice how the aroma of chocolate wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water. Keep an eye on your cheesecake in the oven; it should lightly jiggle in the center when done. And trust me—resist the urge to cut into it right away! Letting it chill completely ensures the best texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips for making this Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake a success:

Don’t Overmix: When adding eggs to the cheesecake, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter. Let your cream cheese and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
Check for Doneness: The cheesecake should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the middle. If it’s too firm, you may have overbaked it.
Chill Thoroughly: The longer you let the cheesecake chill, the better the flavors meld. I often make it the day before serving!
Store Leftovers Correctly: Keep any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s just as delicious the next day (if you can resist eating it all at once)!

These tips come from my own experiences in the kitchen, and they make all the difference in ensuring a perfect cheesecake every time. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect; baking is all about practice!

Variations & Adaptations

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun variations you can try:

Nutty Brownie Base: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for an added crunch.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
Fruit Topping: Instead of hot fudge, top with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a lighter twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix or recipe to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Minty Fresh: Add a splash of mint extract to the cheesecake for a refreshing twist!

These variations can help you cater to different tastes and dietary preferences while keeping the core of this delicious recipe intact. I’ve tried a few of these options myself, and they all have their own charm!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve your Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake, slice it into wedges and place them on plates. Drizzle with warm hot fudge and a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. For an extra special touch, add whipped cream and a cherry on top—classic sundae style!

As for storage, any leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to three months. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat the hot fudge before serving!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is definitely a treat, but it does offer some benefits! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Rich in calcium from the cream cheese and sour cream.
Contains antioxidants from the chocolate, which can be beneficial in moderation.
Can easily be customized to reduce sugar or calories with lighter substitutions.

Of course, keep in mind that this dessert is indulgent, so enjoy it as an occasional treat! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, the joy it brings is worth it.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is a dessert that is not only delicious but also brings people together. With its rich layers and delightful flavors, it’s a recipe worth trying. Customize it to fit your taste and share your creations with friends and family! I love how versatile this recipe is, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Don’t forget to comment below with your thoughts, or share your own variations! Happy baking!

FAQs

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but cream cheese gives the best texture.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s best to make it a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should look set, but the center will still jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

What’s the best way to reheat the hot fudge sauce?

Microwave it in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warm and gooey!