Coffee Brownie Cheesecake – MarraTrips

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Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence: Coffee Brownie Cheesecake. This decadent dessert brings together the fudgy richness of a brownie base, the creamy allure of coffee-flavored cheesecake, and a velvety coffee chocolate ganache. Garnished with chocolate curls, whipped cream, and chocolate-covered coffee beans, it’s a must-try for every coffee lover!

Ingredients

Brownie Base

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Coffee Cheesecake Layer

  • 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, room temperature
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk

Chocolate Coffee Ganache

  • 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules

Chocolate Curls

  • 5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening

Coffee Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
  • 6 tablespoons powdered sugar

Optional Garnishes

  • Chocolate-covered coffee beans
  • Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the sides with non-stick spray.
  2. Melt Butter: Melt the cubed butter in a heat-safe bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until smooth.
  3. Mix Batter: Remove the butter from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until fully dissolved. Add the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla, stirring until combined. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
  4. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let the brownie cool completely on a wire rack. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Step 2: Make the Coffee Cheesecake Layer

  1. Prepare Water Bath: Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water leakage. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan.
  2. Mix Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and cornstarch, mixing until combined. Dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water and add to the mixture along with the vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth. Add eggs and yolk one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled brownie base. Place the roasting pan in the oven and carefully add hot water to the larger pan, filling it about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Remove from the water bath, run a knife around the edges, and cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coffee Ganache

  1. Heat Cream: Heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Stir in the instant coffee granules until dissolved.
  2. Make Ganache: Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Microwave in 15-second intervals if needed to fully melt the chocolate.
  3. Top Cheesecake: Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make Chocolate Curls

  1. Melt Chocolate: Combine chopped chocolate and vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  2. Create Curls: Spread the melted chocolate onto the back of a baking sheet and refrigerate until set. Use a bench scraper to create curls.

Step 5: Coffee Whipped Cream

  1. Whip Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, instant coffee granules, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

  1. Decorate: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Pipe whipped cream around the edges, dust with cocoa powder, and garnish with chocolate curls and chocolate-covered coffee beans.
  2. Serve: Slice and enjoy your decadent Coffee Brownie Cheesecake!

Cooking Tips

  1. Avoid Cracks in the Cheesecake: Make sure to use a water bath and avoid overmixing the batter to reduce the chance of cracks forming.
  2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream for a smoother filling.
  3. Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven to prevent sudden temperature changes that might cause cracks.
  4. Perfect Chocolate Curls: Refrigerate the chocolate for just the right amount of time—firm but not brittle—to create smooth curls.

Substitutions and Variations

  1. Instant Coffee: Substitute with espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor.
  2. Dark Chocolate Chips: Replace with semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a milder ganache.
  3. Vegetable Shortening: Use coconut oil for a natural alternative in the chocolate curls.
  4. Whipped Cream Flavor: Add a hint of vanilla extract to the coffee whipped cream for added depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set properly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake without the whipped cream topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake?

For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wipe the knife clean between each cut.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fat: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 250mg

Conclusion

Coffee Brownie Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that seamlessly combines coffee’s bold flavor with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the fudgy delight of a brownie base. Whether for a special occasion or a treat-yourself moment, this indulgent dessert will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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