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This decadent hot fudge sundae brownie cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone craving layers of creamy cheesecake rich brownies and classic sundae toppings all in one bite. It brings together family favorite flavors and transforms them into a showstopper perfect for birthdays or just because you want to make any day extra special.
The first time I served this at a big family barbecue slices disappeared before I could even snap a photo. It is now the most requested birthday cake in our household—my kids especially love choosing their own toppings for decorating.
Ingredients
- Brownie mix: Use your favorite boxed or homemade recipe for an easy and sturdy base Choose a high quality mix for a rich chocolate flavor
- Eggs oil and water: These bring your brownies together and are essentials in most boxed mixes Fresh eggs yield the best texture
- Espresso powder: Optional but brings out deeper chocolate notes even if you do not taste coffee Use a fine grind
- Cream cheese: Must be softened to avoid lumps Full fat original block style is the best pick for rich cheesecake
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering it Go for fine cane sugar
- Large eggs: Room temperature gives a fluffier and creamier cheesecake texture
- Sour cream: Adds tang and creamy moisture Do not use low fat
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out each layer with warm flavor Use pure vanilla if possible
- All purpose flour: Just a touch helps the cheesecake slice neatly without cracking
- Hot fudge sauce: Choose a thick decadent fudge that holds its shape when drizzled Homemade or a good quality jar makes a difference
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Optional for extra chocolate richness Look for glossy chips that snap when broken
- Whipped cream: Freshly whipped gives the best flavor but canned works for a quicker option
- Sprinkles: Rainbow or chocolate make it festive Go for bright crunchy ones with clear colors
- Chopped nuts: Adds crunch and another sundae vibe Pecans walnuts or peanuts all work It is up to you
- Maraschino cherries: The classic finishing touch Look for cherries with stems still attached for that soda fountain look
- Extra hot fudge sauce: For drizzling at the end A final blanket of gooey decadence
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base:
- Mix your brownie batter according to instructions either from the box or homemade focusing on smoothness and no dry pockets. Line a nine inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease the sides to prevent sticking. Pour batter into the pan and bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty to twenty five minutes until mostly set but still soft in the center. Let it cool while you move on to making the cheesecake layer.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a big bowl use an electric mixer set to medium to beat the cream cheese until there is zero graininess and the mixture looks like spreadable frosting. Add sugar and beat again for a good minute making sure it is fully blended in. Add eggs one at a time waiting until each is completely mixed before adding the next. Between eggs scrape down the bowl so everything stays creamy. Gently blend in sour cream vanilla and flour until there are no lumps left. Pour this silky mixture onto your brownie crust and smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
- Bake in a Water Bath:
- Place your wrapped springform inside a larger roasting pan and add hot water until it comes halfway up the side of your cheesecake pan for even gentle cooking. Bake at three hundred twenty five degrees for about fifty five to sixty five minutes until the center is slightly wobbly but the outsides are firm. Turn off the oven and crack the door leaving the cheesecake inside to rest for another hour as this helps prevent cracks.
- Chill the Cheesecake:
- Cool your cheesecake on the counter until it is not warm to the touch then transfer it to the fridge uncovered for at least four hours or overnight. The chilling process is essential for that dense creamy slice.
- Layer the Hot Fudge:
- Warm your favorite hot fudge until just pourable but not runny. Spread it fully over the chilled cheesecake from edge to edge. Return to the fridge for another twenty minutes so the fudge firms up into a shiny layer.
- Decorate with Sundae Toppings:
- Use a piping bag or a spoon to build clouds of whipped cream around the edge. Scatter sprinkles and nuts over the whipped cream then top each swirl with a bright maraschino cherry. Drizzle extra hot fudge over everything for a dessert that looks just like a classic ice cream sundae in cake form.
My favorite ingredient in this recipe is the homemade hot fudge. I once let my oldest daughter help with the drizzle and she declared the fudge swirl her signature move. Now we always leave a little in the pan to sneak extra spoonfuls after the main event.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to four days just be sure to use an airtight container since cheesecake picks up nearby flavors. If you want to freeze slices wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then foil and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The fudge layer helps seal in moisture and keeps the cheesecake tasting fresh even after freezing.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try a gluten free brownie mix if you need to avoid wheat just be sure it is sturdy enough to support the layers. If you have a favorite nut butter swirl that in along with the hot fudge for an extra decadent touch. You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a slightly lighter but still creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled slices with extra warm hot fudge drizzled per plate for that classic sundae feeling. Each slice also looks beautiful with a scoop of real vanilla ice cream on the side or experiment with caramel sauce if you love a salty sweet twist. For parties set up a DIY station with more toppings and let everyone design their own mini masterpiece.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Ice cream sundae cakes like this have been a family treat for generations always bringing back memories of old school soda fountains and birthday parties. In summer this cheesecake is a cool and creamy centerpiece but it also shines on winter holidays when everyone wants something rich and chocolatey. I always think of my grandmother when adding extra sprinkles at Christmas or switching to pastel colors for spring gatherings.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use pastel sprinkles and jelly beans for Easter celebrations Switch to red and green decorations for a festive holiday version Top with roasted nuts and caramel sauce for an autumn flavor
Success Stories
My cousin requested this cheesecake for his wedding dessert table and there was not a single crumb left by the end of the night. Guests could not believe it was homemade and I received five requests for the recipe before the night was over. Now it is my go to celebration cake for so many family milestones.
Freezer Meal Conversion
For longer storage let the cheesecake cool completely set the fudge layer and wrap tightly before freezing. Slices can be quickly thawed in the fridge and the texture holds up beautifully making it perfect for prepping ahead of parties or gifting to new parents.
This cheesecake brings people together for every kind of celebration and turns an ordinary day into something memorable. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of joy.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade brownies for the base?
Yes, homemade brownies can replace the box mix. Just ensure the baked base is slightly underdone before adding the cheesecake layer.
- → How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Baking in a water bath and allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven help minimize surface cracks.
- → Is it necessary to chill the dessert overnight?
Chilling ensures the layers set perfectly and the flavors meld. For best results, allow at least 4–6 hours of chilling.
- → Can I use store-bought hot fudge sauce?
Absolutely! Both store-bought and homemade hot fudge work well as a topping for this dessert.
- → What garnishes work best for a sundae effect?
Whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, and an extra drizzle of hot fudge complete the sundae experience.