Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups (Printable Version)

Fudgy brownie bottoms meet smooth cheesecake filling in these indulgent dessert cups with chocolate accents.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Brownie Base

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
06 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ Cheesecake Layer

09 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
10 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
11 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
12 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
13 - 1/4 cup sour cream
14 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

→ Toppings (Optional)

15 - 2 tablespoons chocolate sauce for drizzling
16 - Whipped cream
17 - Fresh berries

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and lightly spray liners with cooking spray.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well between additions. Stir in vanilla extract.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold into wet ingredients just until combined. Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips.
04 - Divide brownie batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about one-third full. Bake for 10-12 minutes until just set but not fully baked.
05 - Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and beat until incorporated. Add eggs one at a time on low speed. Fold in vanilla extract and sour cream.
06 - Pour cheesecake mixture over the partially baked brownie bases, filling cups nearly to the top. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over cheesecake layer if desired.
07 - Set muffin tin inside a larger pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are set but centers still jiggle slightly.
08 - Turn off oven, crack oven door open, and allow cups to cool inside for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and water bath, then cool completely at room temperature.
09 - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve with optional chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and fresh berries as desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Using a water bath ensures gentle baking for a creamy cheesecake texture.