Description
Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups are indulgent, bite-sized layered desserts combining fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake. Perfect for parties or a personal treat, these easy-to-make cups deliver rich chocolate and smooth, tangy cheesecake in perfectly portioned servings that satisfy any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- Brownie Mix (boxed or homemade, quantity as per package instructions for about 24 cupcakes)
- Chocolate Chips or Chunks (optional, 1/2 cup for mixing in or topping)
Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese, softened (8 oz / 225 g)
- Sour Cream (1/4 cup / 60 ml)
- Eggs (2 large, room temperature)
- Sugar (1/2 cup / 100 g)
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Optional Toppings and Variations
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1/2 cup, for nutty delight)
- Raspberry or Cherry Preserves (2 tbsp, for berry twist)
- Peanut Butter (drizzle or mini peanut butter cups folded in)
- Gluten-Free Brownie Mix (for gluten-free version)
- Plant-Based Cream Cheese and Egg Substitutes (for vegan version)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Brownie Base: Follow the brownie mix instructions, slightly reducing the baking time for individual cups. Evenly portion the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about halfway. Optionally mix in chocolate chips or chunks for extra bursts of chocolate.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and free of lumps. Take care to avoid overmixing.
- Layer the Cheesecake on Brownies: Spoon the cheesecake mixture gently over the brownie batter in each muffin cup. For a marbled effect, use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the two layers together gently.
- Bake and Cool: Bake at around 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and a toothpick inserted in the cheesecake comes out mostly clean. Let the cups cool completely in the tin before removing.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Top with chocolate chips, nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother cheesecake filling.
- Do not overmix the cheesecake filling to prevent cracks during baking.
- Use silicone or non-stick muffin liners for easier removal.
- Chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before removing for easier handling.
- Test doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking the brownie base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: brownie, cheesecake, dessert cups, loaded brownies, individual desserts, easy dessert, party dessert, gluten-free dessert