Brownie Cheesecake Cups

Brownie Cheesecake Cups are a no-bake layered dessert that combines the rich, fudgy flavor of brownies with a light and creamy cheesecake filling. Topped with chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, and extra brownie crumbles, these individual treats are indulgent, elegant, and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cups offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors: the dense, chocolatey brownies, the smooth and airy cheesecake, and the luscious ganache and caramel topping. They are simple to assemble, require no baking, and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for entertaining or satisfying a sweet craving with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownie layer:
2 cups crumbled fudgy brownies (store-bought or homemade)

For the cheesecake filling:
1½ cups cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)

For the toppings:
¼ cup melted chocolate + 2 tablespoons warm cream (for ganache)
Caramel sauce
Extra brownie crumbs

Directions

Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is fluffy and fully combined. Chill the filling while preparing the cups.
Assemble the cups: In small cups or jars, add a layer of crumbled brownies. Spoon or pipe in a thick layer of cheesecake filling. Repeat layers if your cups are tall enough.
Add toppings: Drizzle chocolate ganache and caramel sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle with extra brownie crumbs for added texture.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cups for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Approximate calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Nutty addition: Add a layer of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Fruit twist: Top with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
Oreo version: Substitute the brownie crumbs with crushed Oreo cookies.
Mint flavor: Add a few drops of mint extract to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate-mint variation.
Peanut butter drizzle: Replace caramel sauce with warmed peanut butter for a nutty topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store Brownie Cheesecake Cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These cups are best enjoyed chilled. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the whipped cream filling may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make Brownie Cheesecake Cups ahead of time?

Yes, they can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use boxed brownie mix for this recipe?

Yes, any homemade or store-bought brownies work well for this dessert.

How do I get smooth cheesecake filling?

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat until smooth before adding the whipped cream.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?

Yes, but fresh whipped cream provides a superior texture and taste.

What kind of chocolate is best for the ganache?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best for a rich, balanced ganache.

Can I make these cups gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free brownies for the base.

Is it necessary to chill before serving?

Yes, chilling helps set the layers and enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I use caramel candies instead of sauce?

Caramel candies can be melted with a splash of cream to create a pourable sauce.

Can I freeze the cups?

Freezing is not recommended due to the whipped cream in the cheesecake filling.

What type of cups work best for this dessert?

Small glass jars, dessert cups, or even wine glasses work beautifully for presentation.

Conclusion

Brownie Cheesecake Cups are a rich, creamy, and chocolatey dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to eat. With their no-bake convenience and layered elegance, these cups are sure to become a favorite for any dessert table. Enjoy them chilled for the ultimate indulgence.

[tasty-recipe id=”15440″]