Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I savored my morning coffee one day, inspiration struck like a bolt of lightning—a rich, decadent Coffee Brownie Cheesecake that would elevate any dessert table! This delightful treat combines a luscious coffee-infused cheesecake layer cradled atop a moist, fudgy brownie base. The best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser and a quick way to impress family and friends with minimal effort. Topped with velvety mocha ganache, delicate chocolate curls, and a dreamy coffee whipped cream, it’s like indulging in a sophisticated café dessert right from the comfort of your kitchen. Are you ready to dive into this heavenly creation and impress all the coffee lovers in your life? Why is this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake special? Indulgence Awaits: This Coffee Brownie Cheesecake presents a delightful blend of coffee and chocolate that will leave you wanting more. Layered Delight: The contrasting layers of creamy cheesecake and fudgy brownie create a dreamy dessert experience that’s hard to resist. Effortless Elegance: Impress your friends without spending all day in the kitchen—this recipe is straightforward yet results in a stunning masterpiece. Flavor Explosion: With velvety mocha ganache and a touch of whipped cream, each bite is a celebration of rich flavors and textures. Brewed for Love: It’s the perfect dessert for coffee lovers, reminiscent of café-style treats enjoyed in the comfort of home. Pair it with a cup of coffee to enhance that experience! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Ingredients For the Brownie Base • Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, cubed) – Base for the brownie layer, ensuring richness; can also use salted butter for extra flavor. • Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) + Light Brown Sugar (½ cup packed) – Sweetens the brownie layer and adds moisture. • All-Purpose Flour (¾ cup) – Provides structure to the brownie. • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (½ cup) – Enhances the chocolate flavor in the brownie. • Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness of the brownie. • Eggs (3 large) + Egg Yolk (1) – Adds structure and richness to the brownie. For the Cheesecake Layer • Cream Cheese (3 packages, 8 oz each) – Main component, offering creamy texture; use full-fat for the best results. • Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake filling. • Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Stabilizes the cheesecake and helps prevent cracking. • Pure Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor profile. • Sour Cream (½ cup) – Infuses a tangy flavor; may substitute with Greek yogurt. • Heavy Cream (½ cup, room temperature) – Enhances the smoothness of the cheesecake. • Instant Coffee Granules (1 tbsp) – Provides essential coffee flavor; can be substituted with espresso powder for an intense taste. • Hot Water (2 tbsp) – Dissolves instant coffee for the cheesecake. • Eggs (3 large) – Adds depth and creaminess to the cheesecake. For the Ganache and Toppings • Dark Chocolate (5 oz, chopped) – Foundation for the mocha ganache; opt for high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. • Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Adds richness to the ganache and whipped cream; keep cold for optimal whipping. • Powdered Sugar (6 tbsp) – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream; granulated sugar can work in a pinch. • Instant Coffee Granules (1 tbsp) – Enhances coffee flavor in whipped cream. • Vegetable Shortening (1 tbsp) – Aids in texture for chocolate curls; may substitute with cocoa butter for a healthier option. • Chocolate Covered Coffee Beans – Optional garnish for added flavor and decoration. Enjoy creating this rich and delightful Coffee Brownie Cheesecake that will surely captivate the taste buds of all! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper sticks out slightly from the edges for easy removal. Lightly spray the sides of the pan with non-stick baking spray to prevent the brownie from sticking. Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine Sugars In a heat-safe bowl, melt ¾ cup of cubed unsalted butter over a saucepan of simmering water. Once melted, whisk in ¾ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of light brown sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This step creates the rich base for your brownie layer, essential for that decadent Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla After the sugar-butter mixture has cooled slightly, add the three large eggs and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix gently until fully incorporated, focusing on combining the ingredients without over-beating, which helps maintain the brownie’s fudgy texture. Step 4: Fold in the Dry Ingredients Sift together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Carefully fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix, as this can lead to a denser brownie base. Step 5: Bake the Brownie Layer Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs attached. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely while preparing the cheesecake layer. Step 6: Set Up a Water Bath To prevent cracking, prepare a water bath by wrapping the outside of the cooled springform pan tightly in aluminum foil. Place it inside a larger baking dish, allowing for steam during the cheesecake baking process. This will help ensure a smooth, creamy result for your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. Step 7: Beat the Cream Cheese In a large mixing bowl, beat 24 oz of cream cheese on medium speed until it’s entirely smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined and creamy. Step 8: Combine Coffee and Cream Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Gradually add this coffee mixture to the cream cheese mix, along with ½ cup of sour cream and ½ cup of room temperature heavy cream. Blend until the mixture is absolutely smooth and infused with delightful coffee flavor. Step 9: Incorporate the Eggs Add three large eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. This gentle mixing helps maintain the airy texture crucial for the cheesecake layer. Once well incorporated, pour the smooth cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base in the springform pan. Step 10: Bake the Cheesecake Pour boiling water into the larger baking dish surrounding the springform pan, then place the whole setup in the oven. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the cheesecake is set with a slight jiggle in the center. Step 11: Cool the Cheesecake After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 30 minutes, allowing it to cool gradually. Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack until room temperature. This delicate cooling process helps prevent cracks in your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. Step 12: Prepare the Ganache In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in 5 oz of chopped dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules until smooth and glossy. This rich mocha ganache will be the perfect topping to your cheesecake. Step 13: Chill the Cheesecake Once cooled, pour the ganache over the cheesecake, smoothing it out uniformly. Refrigerate the Coffee Brownie Cheesecake for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible, to ensure it sets perfectly for that ultimate indulgence. Step 14: Add Finishing Touches Before serving, whip ½ cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules and 6 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Pipe this coffee whipped cream onto the chilled cheesecake and garnish with chocolate curls or chocolate-covered coffee beans for an elegant presentation. Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Variations Feel free to get creative with this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake and make it your own! Espresso Boost: Swap instant coffee for espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor that’ll awaken your taste buds. Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for an irresistible crunch in every bite. White Chocolate Ganache: Use white chocolate for your ganache to create a sweet, creamy topping that balances the coffee flavor. Egg-Free Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan-friendly cheesecake that’s just as delicious. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the ganache for an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely presentation. Minty Freshness: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake layer for a refreshing twist and seasonal flair. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the brownie batter for a surprising, spicy kick! Fruit Infusion: Blend in some pureed strawberries or raspberries into the cheesecake for a fruity contrast to the chocolatey base. Whether you’re trying one of these variations or mixing and matching, every twist adds its own special charm to the beloved Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. And speaking of delightful twists, if you’re looking for something equally tempting, be sure to check out our delightful Cherry Cheesecake Puppy for another sweet adventure! How to Store and Freeze Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh and delicious! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, freezing it for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Serving After Storage: After removing from the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best texture. Reheating: While cheesecake is typically best enjoyed cold, if you prefer warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften slightly without melting the toppings. Expert Tips for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing. Cold ingredients can result in lumps in your cheesecake, affecting the final texture. Avoid Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moisture. Additionally, cooling it gradually in the oven reduces the risk of cracks forming on the surface. Quality Chocolate Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache and brownie layer. The better the chocolate, the richer the overall flavor of your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. Test for Doneness: The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, ruining that creamy consistency. Flavor Substitutes: For a bolder taste, consider substituting instant coffee with espresso powder. This enhances the coffee flavor, making every bite irresistible! What to Serve with Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Indulging in this divine dessert is just the beginning; complement it with perfectly paired sides and drinks for a complete experience. Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and coffee flavors. A sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates their appearance as well! Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream offers a creamy balance to the robust flavors, melting harmoniously with each bite. Espresso Shot: Serve with a shot of espresso to amplify the coffee experience, enhancing the dessert’s richness and depth. The caffeine kick is just an added bonus! Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can bring a beautiful presentation while enhancing the chocolate notes in the brownie base. Perfect for those who crave more sweetness! Toasted Nuts: Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans provide a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake beautifully. This textural contrast elevates each mouthful. Mint Sprig Garnish: A subtly refreshing sprig of mint on top not only adds a pop of color but also cuts through the richness, leaving a refreshing aftertaste. Sparkling Water: Refreshing soda water or lemonade served in stylish glasses can cleanse the palate between bites, making each one feel new and exciting. Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans: These delightful bites serve as a crunchy snack alongside, adding an extra coffee kick that any coffee lover will appreciate! Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the dessert’s presentation while providing a lovely smoothness against the cheesecake’s richness. Make Ahead Options These Coffee Brownie Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie layer up to 24 hours in advance and store it, tightly wrapped, at room temperature to prevent it from drying out. The cheesecake filling can also be made 1-2 days ahead; simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When ready to bake, pour the cheesecake over the cooled brownie base, as this keeps the brownie’s texture intact. After chilling the cheesecake for at least 8 hours or overnight once it’s baked, finish it off with ganache and whipped cream before serving. This ensures your dessert remains just as delicious and fresh, making your meal planning so much easier! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of coffee should I use for this coffee brownie cheesecake? Absolutely! For an intense coffee flavor, instant coffee granules are ideal, but you can also use espresso powder. Espresso powder will provide a richer coffee taste, making every bite even more delightful. How should I store the coffee brownie cheesecake? To keep your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to one week. This helps maintain the moisture and flavor, so every slice remains just as delicious! Can I freeze the coffee brownie cheesecake? Very! You can freeze your cheesecake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture before serving. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking during baking? To avoid cracks, always bake your cheesecake in a water bath. Wrap your springform pan in aluminum foil tightly to prevent water from seeping in. Bake it gradually at low temperatures, and allow it to cool slowly in the oven to keep its creamy texture intact. What can I substitute for sour cream in the cheesecake layer? If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a fantastic alternative to sour cream. It will provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake, keeping it indulgent yet a touch healthier. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking? You’ll know your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is ready when it has a slight jiggle in the center; it’ll firm up as it cools. Overbaking can lead to a dry cheesecake, so keep a close eye on it towards the end of the baking time to achieve that perfect creamy consistency. Indulge in Decadence with Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Delight Experience the rich flavors of Coffee Brownie Cheesecake, a decadent dessert perfect for coffee lovers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes minsChilling Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 9 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Brownie Base3/4 cup Unsalted Butter, cubed can also use salted butter3/4 cup Granulated Sugar sweetens the brownie layer1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed adds moisture3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour provides structure1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder enhances chocolate flavor1/4 tsp Salt balances sweetness3 large Eggs adds structure and richness1 large Egg Yolk adds richnessCheesecake Layer24 oz Cream Cheese use full-fat for best results1 cup Granulated Sugar sweetens cheesecake filling1 tbsp Cornstarch stabilizes cheesecake2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract elevates flavor1/2 cup Sour Cream may substitute with Greek yogurt1/2 cup Heavy Cream, room temperature enhances smoothness1 tbsp Instant Coffee Granules provides coffee flavor2 tbsp Hot Water dissolves coffee3 large Eggs adds depth and creaminessGanache and Toppings5 oz Dark Chocolate, chopped opt for high-quality chocolate1 cup Heavy Cream keep cold for optimal whipping6 tbsp Powdered Sugar sweetens whipped cream1 tbsp Instant Coffee Granules enhances coffee flavor1 tbsp Vegetable Shortening aids texture for chocolate curlsChocolate Covered Coffee Beans optional garnish Equipment 9-inch springform panMixing bowlsaucepanelectric mixer Method Prepare Brownie LayerPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.Melt 3/4 cup unsalted butter in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water, then whisk in sugars until smooth.Add eggs and vanilla, mixing gently until fully incorporated.Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold into the wet mixture until just combined.Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.Let the brownie layer cool completely before preparing the cheesecake layer.Prepare Cheesecake LayerWrap the cooled springform pan in aluminum foil for a water bath.Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sugar and cornstarch.Dissolve coffee granules in hot water and add to the mixture with sour cream and heavy cream; blend until smooth.Incorporate eggs one at a time on low speed, then pour over the cooled brownie base.Place the springform pan in a larger dish, add boiling water, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.Turn off the oven and let cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes, then cool to room temperature.Prepare Ganache and ServeHeat 1 cup heavy cream until simmering, stir in chocolate and coffee granules until smooth.Pour ganache over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.Whip heavy cream with coffee granules and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then pipe onto cheesecake.Garnish with chocolate curls or coffee beans before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing. A water bath helps prevent cracking, and quality chocolate enhances flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
