Indulge in Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake – A Nostalgic Delight!
There’s something incredibly special about dessert that brings us all together, isn’t there? This Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is one of those recipes that manages to capture the joy of nostalgia while also delivering an indulgent twist. Imagine a rich and fudgy brownie crust combined with a creamy chocolate cheesecake filling that practically melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in when you need a little pick-me-up.
What I love most about this recipe is how it combines the best of both worlds: the beloved cosmic brownie and the classic cheesecake. Topped with luscious chocolate ganache and colorful candy-coated chips, it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Trust me, once you try this Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Rich and indulgent: The combination of brownie and cheesecake creates a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable.
– Perfect for sharing: With 14 slices, it’s great for parties or potlucks where you want to impress friends and family.
– Easy to customize: Whether you’re adding different toppings or adjusting sweetness levels, this recipe allows flexibility to cater to your taste.
– Nostalgic flavors: If you’ve ever enjoyed cosmic brownies as a kid, this cheesecake will bring back those delightful memories.
– Decadently beautiful: The vibrant candy-coated chocolate pieces on top make this cheesecake not only delicious but visually stunning too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake. Having everything ready will make your baking experience much smoother!
For the Brownie Base
– 150 grams bittersweet chocolate
– 76 grams unsalted butter
– 183 grams granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 62 grams all purpose flour
– 27 grams cocoa powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 226 grams chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
For the Cheesecake Filling
– 680 grams full fat cream cheese (softened)
– 140 grams granulated sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp cocoa powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 140 grams sour cream (room temperature)
– 3 large eggs (room temperature)
– 200 grams chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
For the Ganache Topping
– 200 grams heavy cream
– 2 tbsp candy-coated chocolate pieces
Variations
One of the best things about baking is that you can always adapt recipes to fit your preferences. Here are some fun variations you can try with your Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake:
– Swap in white chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of bittersweet for a different flavor profile.
– Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie base for an extra crunch.
– Experiment with flavors: Try adding peppermint extract to the cheesecake mixture for a refreshing twist.
– Change up the toppings: Instead of candy-coated chocolates, use fresh berries or crushed cookies for fun texture.
How to Make Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a springform pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your cheesecake later on.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter until smooth. Stir in granulated sugar, followed by eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just mixed. Finally, add semi-sweet chocolate chips and pour the batter into your prepared pan evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layer
Bake the brownie base in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes until set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. Let it cool completely before moving on to the cheesecake layer—this helps maintain its delicious fudgy texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in granulated sugar, followed by vanilla extract, cocoa powder, salt, sour cream, and eggs. Ensure each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding more; this keeps your filling light and fluffy.
Step 5: Pour Over Brownie Base
Once your brownie base has cooled completely, pour the cheesecake mixture over it evenly. This combination creates a heavenly layered effect that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Bake Again
Bake for about an hour until set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. Turn off your oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly ajar—this prevents cracking on top due to sudden temperature changes.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
After cooling at room temperature for about an hour, transfer your cheesecake to refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if possible. Chilling enhances its rich flavors and makes slicing easier.
Step 8: Prepare Chocolate Ganache
To make ganache, heat heavy cream until just simmering then pour over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
Step 9: Assemble Your Cheesecake
Once chilled and set, pour ganache over your cheesecake layer allowing it to drip down gently along edges. Top with colorful candy-coated pieces for that cosmic touch!
Now you’re ready to slice into this delightful Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake! Enjoy every bite—it’s sure to be a hit!
Pro Tips for Making Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake
Creating the perfect cosmic brownie cheesecake is all about attention to detail. With these simple yet effective tips, you’ll be on your way to a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning!
– Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling without lumps.
– Don’t overmix: When combining your cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes.
– Bake in a water bath: To prevent cracks and ensure even baking, consider placing your cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water. This helps maintain a consistent temperature.
– Chill thoroughly: For the best texture and flavor, allow your cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
– Add a touch of salt: A pinch of salt in both the brownie crust and cheesecake filling enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
How to Serve Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake
Serving your cosmic brownie cheesecake can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this heavenly treat in style.
Garnishes
– Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lightness that beautifully contrasts with the rich cheesecake.
– Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top for an elegant finishing touch that screams indulgence.
– Fresh berries: Adding berries not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a refreshing element that complements the richness of the cake.
Side Dishes
– Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the rich flavors of the cheesecake nicely.
– Vanilla ice cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy experience that takes indulgence to another level.
– Coffee or espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts, enhancing their flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping this cosmic brownie cheesecake makes it easy to enjoy anytime! Here’s how to store any leftovers or prepare it ahead of time.
Storing Leftovers
– Refrigerate: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
– Cover well: If you don’t have an airtight container, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
– Freeze slices individually: Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows for easy servings later on.
– Thaw properly: When ready to enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight rather than at room temperature for best texture.
Reheating
– Serve chilled: This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold; simply take it out of the refrigerator before serving.
– Avoid reheating: Since this dessert is meant to be served chilled, avoid microwaving or reheating as it may alter its creamy texture.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making cosmic brownie cheesecake that might help you along your baking journey!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Using low-fat cream cheese may change the texture slightly, resulting in a less creamy filling. For best results, stick with full-fat cream cheese for this recipe.
Can I substitute different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate based on your preference. Just keep in mind that different chocolates will affect sweetness levels and overall flavor.
How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly when gently shaken. It will firm up as it cools down. Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to whip up this cosmic brownie cheesecake! It’s perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat for yourself. Remember, baking is all about enjoying the process—so have fun with it! Happy baking!
Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a springform pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper.
- Melt together bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter until smooth. Stir in granulated sugar, followed by eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just mixed. Finally, add semi-sweet chocolate chips and pour the batter into your prepared pan evenly.
- Bake the brownie base for approximately 25 minutes until set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. Let it cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in granulated sugar, followed by vanilla extract, cocoa powder, salt, sour cream, and eggs.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base evenly.
- Bake for about an hour until set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. Turn off your oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
- After cooling at room temperature for about an hour, transfer your cheesecake to refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if possible.
- Heat heavy cream until just simmering then pour over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Once chilled and set, pour ganache over your cheesecake layer allowing it to drip down gently along edges. Top with colorful candy-coated pieces.
