Get ready to experience chocolate heaven with these Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies! This indulgent dessert combines three irresistible layers: a fudgy Nutella brownie base, a silky cheesecake middle, and a luscious caramel topping. The contrast between the rich chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and sweet caramel creates a harmony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
Perfect for special occasions or when you simply need a decadent treat, these brownies elevate the classic brownie experience to something truly extraordinary. The best part? Despite their impressive appearance, they’re surprisingly straightforward to make in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This
- Triple-layer indulgence with distinct flavors and textures in each bite
- No specialty equipment needed – just basic baking tools
- Make-ahead friendly – these actually taste better the next day!
- Impressive dessert that looks like it came from a bakery
- Customizable with different toppings or mix-ins
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 6 oz dark chocolate (50-60% cocoa)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3 medium eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chunks
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chunks
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 medium egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 heaped tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 15 tablespoons Nutella
- Store-bought salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in remaining ingredients until just combined. Refrigerate.
- Line 8×8 inch pan. Melt chocolate and butter. Mix eggs, sugars and vanilla separately for 3 minutes until creamy.
- Fold melted chocolate into egg mixture. Gradually fold in sifted dry ingredients.
- Spread half brownie batter, add dollops of cheesecake and Nutella, cover with remaining batter.
- Top with chocolate chunks. Bake at 340°F for 28 minutes (fudgy) or 35 minutes (more set). Cool then drizzle with caramel.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the brownie batter
- Substitute the caramel with dulce de leche or chocolate ganache for different flavor profiles
- For cleaner cuts, freeze the brownies for 15 minutes before slicing with a warm knife
- Make a marbled effect by swirling the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter with a knife
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel variation
- For a boozy twist, add 1 tablespoon of Baileys or Kahlúa to the cheesecake mixture
Serving Suggestions
These decadent brownies are perfect on their own, but for an over-the-top dessert experience, serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the rich, warm brownie creates an irresistible combination.
For a coffee shop experience at home, pair with a cappuccino or latte. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of these indulgent treats.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- These brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months – wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap
- The brownies will be fudgier when cold and softer at room temperature
- For best flavor, allow the brownies to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving
FAQs
Can I use a boxed brownie mix instead of making the brownie layer from scratch?
Yes! For a shortcut, you can use your favorite boxed brownie mix for the base layer. Just prepare according to package directions and proceed with the recipe.
Why did my cheesecake layer crack?
Cracks usually form from overbaking or cooling too quickly. Next time, try baking for a slightly shorter time and allowing the brownies to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These brownies actually improve with time as the flavors meld. Make them 1-2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator, adding the caramel topping just before serving.
I don’t have Nutella. What can I substitute?
Any chocolate-hazelnut spread will work, or substitute with peanut butter or cookie butter for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
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