Cheesecake Cake Brownie Recipe: The Ultimate Triple-Layer Dessert You’ll Crave

Introduction

Looking for a dessert that brings together rich chocolatey brownie, creamy cheesecake, and moist chocolate cake—all in one heavenly bite? Say hello to your new favorite treat: the Cheesecake Cake Brownie. This indulgent triple-layered masterpiece isn’t just a show-stopper—it’s an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply feeding your sweet tooth, this layered dessert offers the best of all worlds in one pan.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Cheesecake Cake Brownie—from ingredients and equipment to step-by-step instructions, pro tips, variations, and more. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Cake Brownie

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1. The Best of Three Worlds

This recipe combines the richness of fudgy brownies, the silkiness of cheesecake, and the soft texture of chocolate cake—layered into one delicious dessert.

2. Crowd-Pleaser

Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or potluck, Cheesecake Cake Brownies are always the first dessert to disappear from the table.

3. Perfect for Make-Ahead

This dessert actually tastes better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead option.

4. Visually Impressive

The defined, triple-layer structure makes this dessert stunning to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownie Layer:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Cake Layer:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake batter)
  • Ingredients as per the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)

Pro Tip: You can use homemade chocolate cake if you prefer complete control over flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife for slicing cleanly

Check Out: Orange Chocolate Brownie – Flavor#48.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  3. In a bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
  5. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes—just enough to set the brownie base. Remove and let it cool slightly.

Why par-bake? This prevents the brownie layer from getting soggy under the weight of the cheesecake and cake layers.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

  1. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and lump-free.
  3. Gently pour the cheesecake batter over the partially baked brownie layer.
  4. Smooth out with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter

  1. If using a boxed mix, follow instructions on the box.
  2. If making from scratch, whip up your favorite chocolate cake batter.
  3. Carefully spoon or pour the cake batter over the cheesecake layer.
  4. Spread evenly without mixing layers.

Pro Tip: Use a spoon to drop the batter in sections and then gently smooth it out.

Step 4: Final Bake

  1. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
  2. The cake should be fully baked, the cheesecake firm, and the brownie base set.

Note: Every oven is different, so start checking at 45 minutes.

Cooling and Serving Tips

  • Allow the dessert to cool completely in the pan at room temperature.
  • Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is best).
  • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan.
  • For clean slices, use a warm knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months
  • Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Tip: This dessert often tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

Delicious Variations and Substitutions

Cheesecake Cake Brownie

1. Red Velvet Twist

Replace the chocolate cake layer with red velvet for a colorful and tangy version.

2. Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Add 1/4 cup peanut butter to the cheesecake layer and top with peanut butter chips.

3. Mint Chocolate Layer

Add peppermint extract to the cake layer for a festive flavor.

4. Fruit Swirls

Swirl raspberry or strawberry jam into the cheesecake layer before baking.

5. Gluten-Free Version

Use a gluten-free brownie and cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Cheesecake Cake Brownie is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration in every slice. With three distinct layers that bring together texture, flavor, and indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this layered treat is approachable, fun, and incredibly rewarding to make and eat.

So, preheat that oven and get ready to wow your family, friends, or even just yourself with the ultimate triple-layer dessert. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe, share it on Pinterest, or tag your creations on social media. Happy baking!

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FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought brownie or cake mixes?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with boxed mixes, which saves time without sacrificing flavor.

2. Why did my layers mix together?

If layers mix, it’s likely that the brownie base wasn’t baked long enough, or the cheesecake layer wasn’t thick enough. Ensure each layer is firm before adding the next.

3. Can I bake this in a round pan?

Yes, but baking time may vary. A 9-inch springform pan works well for presentation, especially if you want a cake-style look.

4. How do I know when the dessert is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with moist crumbs but no raw batter. The cheesecake should feel firm to the touch.

5. Can I use different flavors of cake or brownie?

Definitely! Try vanilla cake, blondies, or red velvet brownies for fun variations.

6. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, but use two pans to ensure even baking. Avoid overcrowding a single pan, or the center may not cook properly.

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