Are you a coffee lover with a sweet tooth? Do you crave something rich, decadent, and full of flavor? Then this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake recipe is the perfect dessert for you! Combining the rich flavors of fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and aromatic coffee, this dessert is a showstopper that will impress everyone who tastes it. Stick with me through this article to learn everything you need to know about making this indulgent treat. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy!
What is Coffee Brownie Cheesecake?
Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that brings together three beloved treats: brownies, cheesecake, and coffee. The bottom layer is a rich, fudgy brownie, the middle layer is a smooth and creamy coffee-flavored cheesecake, and the top is usually adorned with a rich chocolate ganache or coffee-flavored whipped cream. The contrast of textures and flavors makes this dessert irresistible—each bite offers something sweet, creamy, and a little bit bitter from the coffee.
This combination creates a complex dessert that’s not overly sweet, thanks to the bitter notes from the coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and worth the effort. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps you need to follow to create this masterpiece.
Ingredients List for the Brownie Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional for added coffee flavor)
Ingredients List for the Coffee Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Ingredients for the Chocolate Ganache Topping (Optional but Recommended)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semisweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Substitutions and Variations
Every baker knows that sometimes you don’t have all the ingredients you need on hand, or you want to change things up a little. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try for this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake recipe:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream. Opt for dark chocolate that doesn’t contain milk solids.
- Sugar-Free: Swap out the granulated sugar for a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
- Decaf Coffee: If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you can use decaffeinated coffee instead of regular coffee.
- Chocolate Espresso Cheesecake: Want an extra punch of coffee flavor? Add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the brownie layer, making it a chocolate espresso brownie base.
- Oreo Crust: Instead of a brownie base, you can use a crushed Oreo cookie crust for a quicker, no-bake alternative.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Mix melted butter and sugar in a medium bowl until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
- Add the instant espresso powder (optional) for that extra coffee kick.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few crumbs attached.
- Let the brownie layer cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
- Stir in the brewed coffee, espresso powder, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.
- Fold in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie layer in the springform pan.
- Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before adding the ganache or serving.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional)
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy.
- Add the butter and stir until it melts completely and the ganache is silky smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Let it set in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
How to Cook Coffee Brownie Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the brownie batter by combining wet and dry ingredients as outlined above.
- Bake the brownie layer until just set.
- Prepare the coffee cheesecake batter and pour it over the cooled brownie layer.
- Bake the cheesecake using a water bath (if desired) to prevent cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before adding the chocolate ganache.
- Top with ganache, whipped cream, or espresso beans for added texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Cheesecake Batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing the cheesecake to crack while baking.
- Not Chilling Long Enough: Cheesecake needs time to set properly. Chilling it overnight is ideal for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the Coffee Flavor: If you’re making a coffee-flavored dessert, make sure the coffee is strong enough to stand out. Use brewed coffee and espresso powder for a more pronounced flavor.
- Forgetting to Cool Gradually: Quickly cooling your cheesecake can lead to cracks. Always let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The best way to enjoy your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is to take your time with the presentation. Here are a few tips:
- Cutting Perfect Slices: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between each slice to get clean, even cuts.
- Topping Ideas: Garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an added wow factor.
- Whipped Cream Dollops: Add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice for a classic finishing touch.
How to Serve Coffee Brownie Cheesecake
- Serve chilled for the best texture. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a cold brew for a double coffee indulgence.
- Serve with berries or caramel sauce for a complementary flavor contrast.
Presentation Ideas for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a beautiful finishing touch.
- Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edges and place a chocolate-covered espresso bean on each rosette.
- Dust with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar to give it a professional finish.
Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures that your cheesecake mixture is smooth and creamy, avoiding lumps.
- Don’t Rush the Chilling Process: Allow the cheesecake enough time to set in the refrigerator to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Use a Springform Pan: It makes removing the cheesecake from the pan much easier without damaging the layers.
- Double the Ganache for Extra Decadence: If you love a thick chocolate topping, feel free to double the amount of ganache.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake actually tastes better the next day. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
2. How long does Coffee Brownie Cheesecake last?
Store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months.
3. Can I skip the ganache topping?
Yes, the cheesecake is delicious on its own! However, the ganache adds an extra layer of richness.
4. What’s the best way to avoid cheesecake cracks?
Avoid overmixing the batter and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
5. Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes, just make sure to dissolve the instant coffee in a small amount of water first to avoid graininess.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Coffee Brownie Cheesecake recipe is a deliciously indulgent dessert that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the bold flavor of coffee. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, it's sure to be a hit. Follow the steps, avoid common mistakes, and take your time to present it beautifully, and you’ll have a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
PrintCoffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe
Indulge in a decadent Coffee Brownie Cheesecake with espresso-infused brownie base and a smooth, creamy cheesecake topping. This recipe blends the bold flavors of coffee and chocolate for a rich dessert experience. Ideal for special occasions or a delicious treat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Layer: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. Mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and coffee. Add flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie layer.
- Bake & Chill: Bake for 40-45 minutes until cheesecake is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chocolate chips to the brownie layer.
- Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a finishing touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220mg
Leave a Reply