Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brownie bottom hot fudge sundae cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup. It combines a rich, fudgy brownie base with an ultra-creamy cheesecake layer and finishes with glossy hot fudge and classic sundae toppings. Every bite delivers deep chocolate flavor, creamy texture, and playful nostalgia. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert that feels both indulgent and fun.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 60 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 4–6 hours
Total time: About 7 hours
Servings: 12 slices

Ingredients Overview

This dessert is built in layers. A brownie base provides a dense, chocolatey foundation. The cheesecake layer is smooth, tangy, and perfectly balanced, while the hot fudge and sundae toppings add visual appeal and extra decadence. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste or theme.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

1 box brownie mix (18 oz) or homemade brownie batter
Ingredients listed on the box (eggs, oil, water)
Optional: ½ teaspoon espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor

For the Cheesecake Filling

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Hot Fudge Topping

1 cup hot fudge sauce, store-bought or homemade
Optional: ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips

For the Sundae Garnish

Whipped cream
Sprinkles, rainbow or chocolate
Chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or peanuts
Maraschino cherries
Extra hot fudge sauce for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Brownie Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
Prepare the brownie batter according to package directions or your preferred homemade recipe. Stir in espresso powder if using.
Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until mostly set but slightly underbaked in the center.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Add the granulated sugar and mix until fully combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.
Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing until the batter is creamy and lump-free.
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the brownie base and smooth the top.

Bake the Cheesecake

Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan.
Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to rest inside for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 4–6 hours or overnight.

Add the Hot Fudge Layer

Warm the hot fudge sauce slightly until pourable.
Spread a generous, even layer over the chilled cheesecake.
Return to the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow the fudge to set.

Decorate Like a Sundae

Pipe or dollop whipped cream around the edges or across the top.
Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sprinkles.
Place a maraschino cherry on top of each whipped cream swirl.
Drizzle extra hot fudge for a classic sundae finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for clean slices and the best texture. For an extra indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This cheesecake is perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you want a dessert that truly steals the show.

Storage Tips

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Individual slices can be frozen without toppings for up to 1 month and thawed overnight in the fridge before decorating.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 580 kcal
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 38 g
Sugar: 41 g
Fiber: 2 g

This brownie bottom hot fudge sundae cheesecake is pure dessert bliss—bold, creamy, chocolatey, and guaranteed to impress.