Description
Delight in these decadent Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups, combining rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake in individual serving sizes. Topped with caramel drizzle, mini chocolate chips, and optional nuts and whipped cream, these dessert cups are perfect for parties or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually oil, eggs, and water)
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Toppings and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Brownie Base: Mix the brownie batter according to the package instructions, which typically call for adding oil, eggs, and water. Pour the batter evenly into each muffin cup, filling about halfway. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract, eggs, and sour cream, mixing thoroughly until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble Dessert Cups: Once the brownie bases are completely cooled, carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of each, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden on top. Remove from oven and let the cups cool in the pan.
- Chill: After cooling, transfer the dessert cups to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over each cup, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using, and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent mixing or melting.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture of the cheesecake topping.
- Feel free to customize toppings according to your preference, substituting nuts or adding berries for variation.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- These dessert cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
