Introduction
Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups
Dive into the perfect blend of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and luscious ganache with these Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups. They’re a decadent treat for any occasion!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
h5>For the brownie base:
– 115 g butter
– 200 g sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 30 g cocoa powder
– 65 g flour
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
For the no-bake cheesecake layer:
– 225 g cream cheese, softened
– 60 g powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 240 ml whipped topping or whipped cream
For the chocolate ganache:
– 120 ml heavy cream
– 120 g dark chocolate, chopped
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes (including 2 hours cooling time)
Yield: 8-10 dessert cups
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). If making the brownie base, line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely.
5. To make the cheesecake layer, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until combined.
6. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate, stirring until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
7. Assemble the dessert cups by cutting the cooled brownies into small squares to fit the bottom of your serving cups.
8. Layer the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie squares.
9. Pour a layer of chocolate ganache over the cheesecake layer.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set.
11. Serve chilled and enjoy the delicious blend of textures and flavors.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). If you’re preparing the brownie base, make sure to line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Incorporate the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Stir until everything is fully combined, making sure there are no lumps.
Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely afterwards.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
For the no-bake cheesecake layer, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping or whipped cream until fully combined, creating a light, fluffy mixture.
Make the Chocolate Ganache
To create the ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Dessert Cups
Cut the cooled brownies into small squares that will fit at the bottom of your serving cups. Begin layering by placing a brownie square at the bottom of each cup.
Layer with Cheesecake
Spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie squares in each cup, creating a creamy layer that balances the fudgy base perfectly.
Add the Ganache Layer
Pour a generous layer of chocolate ganache over the cheesecake layer in each cup, letting it drizzle down the sides for an enticing look.
Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the assembled dessert cups for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully and allows the cheesecake layer to set.
Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, serve these delightful brownie cheesecake dessert cups cold and indulge in the exquisite mix of textures and flavors.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe yields 8-10 dessert cups, making it perfect for gatherings or as a delightful treat for family.
Storage Instructions
These dessert cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure they are covered to maintain freshness.
Customization Suggestions
Feel free to customize the brownies and cheesecake with nuts, chocolate chips, or cream cheese variations for an extra twist on this indulgent dessert.
Tips for Success
Be sure to let the brownies cool completely before layering, as warm brownies may cause the cheesecake layer to melt unexpectedly. Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt butter over low heat to prevent it from burning. This ensures a smooth consistency when combined with other ingredients.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Stir wet ingredients until fully combined, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely for a smoother brownie base.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in dry ingredients to the wet mixture to avoid overmixing, which can lead to denser brownies.
Baking Brownies
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are perfectly baked.
Beating Cream Cheese
Beat cream cheese until smooth to eliminate lumps, which helps in achieving a creamy texture for the cheesecake layer.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Carefully fold in whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture to maintain airiness and lightness in the cheesecake.
Making Ganache
Heat heavy cream just until it simmers, then pour over chopped chocolate to create a smooth ganache without overheating the chocolate.
Layering Dessert Cups
Cut brownies into appropriate sizes to layer evenly at the bottom of the cups, then add cheesecake and ganache layers for an appealing presentation.
Chilling Time
Refrigerate assembled dessert cups for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate, but keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor profile will change.
How long do these dessert cups last in the fridge?
They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I make the brownie base ahead of time?
Absolutely! The brownie base can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dessert cups.
Is it possible to use a gluten-free flour substitute?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour in the brownie recipe.
Can I add toppings to the dessert cups?
Definitely! Consider adding crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for extra flavor and decoration.
Conclusion
These Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups are the ultimate indulgence, combining rich brownie layers, smooth cheesecake, and velvety chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. The balance of flavors and textures makes this dessert a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownie Cheesecake Cups
Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter to the cheesecake layer for an irresistible nutty twist.
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Incorporate mint extract into the cheesecake layer for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor experience.
Raspberry Brownie Cheesecake Cups
Top the cheesecake layer with fresh raspberries or add raspberry puree for a fruity contrast to the chocolate richness.
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Mix espresso powder into the brownie batter and cheesecake layer for a delicious coffee-infused dessert.
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Fold in edible cookie dough chunks into the cheesecake for a fun and playful combination.
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