Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of fresh coffee wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a little thrill at the thought of my next creation. Today, I’m sharing a rich Coffee Brownie Cheesecake—a decadent dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a luscious coffee-infused cheesecake nestled atop a fudgy brownie base, artfully draped in silky chocolate ganache. This dessert isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a delightful way to elevate your coffee game and indulge your senses. With a quick prep time and the promise of a luxurious flavor experience, this cheesecake will have your guests raving and coming back for more. Ready to transform your dessert repertoire? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together! Why is this dessert a must-try? Decadent Layers: Each slice of this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake offers a symphony of flavors, featuring a creamy coffee cheesecake sitting on a rich brownie base. Quick Prep Time: With straightforward instructions, this recipe can seamlessly fit into your busy schedule—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this luxurious dessert that adds a dash of elegance to any gathering—just wait for the rave reviews! Versatile Flavor Twist: Customize your dessert experience by swapping dark chocolate for milk chocolate or adding nuts for an extra crunch, making this recipe your own. Indulge alongside other favorites like Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for a delightful dessert spread! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Ingredients For the Brownie Base Unsalted Butter (0.75 cup, cubed) – Adds richness and moisture to the brownie layer. Granulated Sugar (0.75 cup) – Sweetens the brownie, creating a lovely balance with the cheesecake. Brown Sugar (0.5 cup) – Enhances moisture and adds a hint of caramel flavor. Flour (0.75 cup) – Provides the essential structure for the brownie. Cocoa Powder – Adds chocolate flavor and color; Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste. Salt (0.25 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor of both layers. For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese (24 oz) – The key to a creamy cheesecake; be sure it’s softened for smooth blending. Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection. Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Helps stabilize the mixture, preventing cracks in the cheesecake. Sour Cream (0.5 cup) – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to balance the richness. Eggs (3 large + 1 yolk) – Bind the cheesecake and give it structure during baking. Instant Coffee Granules – Infuses the cheesecake with a rich coffee flavor; substitute with espresso for more intensity. Hot Water (2 tbsp) – Combines with coffee granules for even distribution in the cheesecake. Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor and complements the coffee notes. Heavy Cream (1 cup, cold) – Essential for achieving a silky smooth cheesecake texture. For the Ganache and Topping Dark Chocolate (5 oz, chopped) – Perfect for creating silky chocolate curls and decadent ganache. Dark Chocolate Chips (1.5 cups) – The main chocolate source, lending richness to the cheesecake and ganache. Powdered Sugar (6 tbsp) – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream topping. Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Used in the ganache for a silky texture. Add a delightful topping with chocolate-covered coffee beans to enhance your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release. This preparation ensures that your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake bakes evenly, creating a delicious base for the luxurious layers to come. Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter In a medium saucepan, melt the cubed unsalted butter over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in 0.75 cup of granulated sugar and 0.5 cup of brown sugar until well combined. Next, add 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and 0.25 teaspoon of salt, folding until no dry ingredients remain. Step 3: Bake the Brownies Pour your brownie batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Keep the brownies slightly underbaked, as they will continue to set while cooling. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling While the brownie base cools, make the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat 24 oz of softened cream cheese on medium-low speed until creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, mixing until smooth. Incorporate 0.5 cup of sour cream, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the mixture is silky and well combined. Step 5: Combine Coffee and Eggs Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of hot water, then add this to your smooth cheesecake mixture for an uplifting coffee flavor. Next, add the 3 large eggs and 1 egg yolk, one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to ensure a light and fluffy cheesecake filling. Step 6: Layer the Cheesecake Once your brownie layer is completely cool, pour the cheesecake filling over the brownie base, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This Coffee Brownie Cheesecake will bake beautifully, with the cheesecake sitting atop the rich brownie, combining rich flavors and textures as it bakes. Step 7: Create a Water Bath Wrap the exterior of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent any water leaks. Place the wrapped pan into a larger baking dish and fill it with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath will help your cheesecake cook gently and evenly, preventing cracks. Step 8: Bake the Cheesecake Bake the cheesecake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes to help avoid cracks as it cools. Step 9: Prepare the Ganache For the rich ganache, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just steaming. Stir in 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules until dissolved, then pour the hot cream over 1.5 cups of dark chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Step 10: Chill and Garnish Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish with the silky ganache poured over the top, chocolate curls, and dollops of fluffy whipped cream. Cutting into your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake will reveal those luscious layers, perfect for impressing your guests! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Variations Feel free to adapt the Coffee Brownie Cheesecake to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate in the ganache for a sweeter twist that kids will love. Flavored Whipped Cream: Elevate the richness by adding hazelnut or vanilla extract to your whipped cream—perfect for a delightful flavor boost! Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie layer to add a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. Espresso Upgrade: Replace instant coffee granules with freshly brewed espresso for a stronger coffee kick, ideal for true coffee lovers. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the ganache to introduce a sweet, gooey layer that perfectly complements the chocolate. Cheesecake Bars: Transform this recipe into bars by using a rectangular baking dish, cutting into squares, and serving as bite-sized treats! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a luscious gluten-free dessert without compromising taste. Decadent Layers: Add layers of chocolate mousse between the brownie and cheesecake to amp up the indulgence—your guests will be in heaven! Pair your delicious creation with a rich slice of Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake or a fresh Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake to make dessert time even more special! How to Store and Freeze Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh while preserving the decadent layers and flavors. Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the cheesecake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This helps maintain its rich texture. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For quicker thawing, place it on the counter for a couple of hours—just be sure to keep it covered. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this dessert; serve it chilled for the best experience! Expert Tips for Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a silky smooth cheesecake filling—this step is crucial for a flawless texture. Water Bath Technique: Use a water bath to bake the cheesecake; double wrap the springform pan in foil to prevent leaks. This method helps prevent cracks and keeps your dessert creamy. Cool Accessorizing: Wait until the brownies cool completely before layering with cheesecake. This ensures clean cuts and preserves the beautiful layers of your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. Ganache Matter: When preparing the ganache, let the hot cream sit over the chocolate chips for a few minutes before stirring—this allows for an even melt and a luscious finish. Chill Time Is Key: Allow your cheesecake to chill overnight in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop fully. Patience is a virtue when it comes to rich desserts! What to Serve with Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Enhance your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake experience with delightful accompaniments that create a truly memorable meal. Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness, balancing flavors beautifully. They add a lively pop of color that enhances presentation. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in texture. The warmth of the brownie and cold ice cream create a delectable experience. Espresso or Coffee: Pairing a warm cup of espresso elevates the coffee notes in your dessert. The warmth and bold flavor complement the cheesecake splendidly. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds an extra layer of richness. It enhances the luxurious feel of each slice, making it even more indulgent. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense cheesecake. It also adds a touch of elegance. Chocolate-Covered Coffee Beans: For an extra crunch and a delightful coffee flavor hit, sprinkle some chocolate-covered coffee beans on top. This adds a fun toasted element to your dessert. Each of these sides bring their unique touch, creating a deliciously unforgettable dessert experience that complements your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake perfectly! Make Ahead Options These Coffee Brownie Cheesecakes are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still serving a delightful dessert! You can prepare the brownie base up to 3 days in advance; just allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be made up to 24 hours ahead—just mix it and pour it over the brownie layer right before baking to seal in freshness. For the ganache, make it 1-2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the ganache gently to achieve a silky texture before pouring it over your cheesecake. Enjoy the luxury of this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake with minimal effort on the day of serving! Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right coffee for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor infusion, I recommend using high-quality instant coffee granules or freshly brewed espresso. If you’re a coffee lover, freshly brewed espresso can add a deeper and more robust flavor compared to granules. Just remember to dissolve it in hot water first for even distribution in the cheesecake! What’s the best way to store leftover cheesecake? You can store your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will keep it fresh and maintain its rich flavors. Just make sure to cover it well to avoid any fridge odors mixing in! Can I freeze the Coffee Brownie Cheesecake? Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! To do so, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For a quicker option, it can sit covered on the counter for a couple of hours. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? No worries! To prevent cracking, a water bath is essential—it keeps the cheesecake cooking evenly. If you do notice cracks, the cheesecake will still taste divine! Simply cover it with the ganache and whipped cream, and no one will be the wiser. Next time, remember to cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven after baking; this will help minimize cracks. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Very much so! To make a gluten-free Coffee Brownie Cheesecake, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure that your chocolate and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. I often make gluten-free variations for my friends, and they love it just as much! Is this dessert safe for pets? It’s essential to keep in mind that this cheesecake contains ingredients such as chocolate and coffee, which can be harmful to pets. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy your Coffee Brownie Cheesecake yourself and keep it away from furry friends! Indulge in Decadence: Coffee Brownie Cheesecake Delight Experience the ultimate indulgence with this Coffee Brownie Cheesecake, blending rich coffee flavors with a fudgy brownie base. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes minsChilling Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 9 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownie Base0.75 cup Unsalted Butter cubed0.75 cup Granulated Sugar0.5 cup Brown Sugar0.75 cup FlourCocoa Powder Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste.0.25 tsp SaltFor the Cheesecake Filling24 oz Cream Cheese softened1 cup Granulated Sugar1 tbsp Cornstarch0.5 cup Sour Cream3 large Eggs1 Egg YolkInstant Coffee Granules substitute with espresso for more intensity.2 tbsp Hot Water2 tsp Vanilla Extract1 cup Heavy Cream coldFor the Ganache and Topping5 oz Dark Chocolate chopped1.5 cups Dark Chocolate Chips6 tbsp Powdered Sugar1 cup Heavy Cream Equipment 9-inch springform panMedium saucepanlarge mixing bowlSpatulaAluminum foilBaking Dish Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.In a medium saucepan, melt the cubed unsalted butter over low heat. Remove and mix in granulated and brown sugar until combined. Add eggs and vanilla, blend well. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt.Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely.Beat cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and cornstarch, mix well. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.Dissolve instant coffee in hot water and add to the filling. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled brownie base.Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger dish filled with hot water.Bake the cheesecake at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn off oven and let it cool for 30 minutes.Heat heavy cream for ganache until steaming, stir in coffee granules. Pour over chocolate chips to create ganache.Refrigerate cheesecake overnight. Before serving, garnish with ganache and chocolate curls. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a silky texture. Using a water bath prevents cracks in the cheesecake. Chill overnight for optimal flavor development. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!