Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake (Brownie Base + Swirled Fudge)
This Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake is a full-on dessert event: a fudgy brownie crust, a thick layer of creamy cheesecake, and ribbons of hot fudge swirled through the top. It’s the kind of show-stopper that vanishes fast at birthdays, holidays, and any gathering with chocolate people.
Quick Recipe Info
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Bake Time: 45–55 minutes (plus brownie pre-bake)
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Chill Time: 4 hours (best overnight)
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Yield: 10–12 slices
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Category: Dessert
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Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
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1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
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Cooking spray or butter (for greasing pan)
Cheesecake Layer
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2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup sour cream
Fudge + Toppings
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1 cup hot fudge sauce (plus extra for topping)
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Whipped cream, for garnish
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Chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)
How to Make Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake
1) Prep the pan and oven
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a springform pan (9-inch works best). For easy release, you can line the bottom with parchment.
2) Make and partially bake the brownie base
Prepare brownie batter according to the package. Pour into the pan and bake halfway based on the box time.
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Example: if the box says 30 minutes, bake about 15 minutes.
The center should be set around the edges but still a bit soft.
3) Mix the cheesecake filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Mix in vanilla and sour cream.
4) Assemble
Pour cheesecake filling over the partially baked brownie layer. Drizzle hot fudge on top and gently swirl with a knife or skewer (don’t over-swirl).
5) Bake
Bake 45–50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
6) Cool and chill
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is even better for clean slices).
7) Finish like a sundae
Top with whipped cream and an extra drizzle of hot fudge. Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts if you want extra crunch.
Tips for the Best Results
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Don’t overmix after adding eggs: overmixing can cause cracks.
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Hot fudge should be warm, not scorching: warm = easy swirl; too hot = melts the top layer.
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Clean slices: use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wipe between cuts.
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Pan protection (optional): wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil to prevent le
