Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups (Printer-Friendly)

Decadent cups with fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and caramel ganache offer rich, layered indulgence.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Brownie Base

01 - 6 to 8 store-bought fudgy brownies, crumbled (avoid cakey texture)

→ Cheesecake Filling

02 - 225 grams (8 oz) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
03 - 100 grams (1 cup) powdered sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 240 ml (1 cup) heavy whipping cream

→ Toppings

06 - 120 grams (4 oz) dark chocolate ganache
07 - 60 ml (1/4 cup) thick caramel sauce
08 - Extra brownie crumbs for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy, scraping the sides frequently to avoid lumps.
02 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
03 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a flexible spatula, turning the bowl and using light strokes to maintain airiness and a mousse-like texture.
04 - Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of crumbled brownie into the bottom of each serving cup, pressing lightly to form an even layer without compacting.
05 - Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the brownie base in each cup, carefully layering to preserve distinct separation.
06 - Drizzle a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache followed by ribbons of thick caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer using a spoon.
07 - Continue alternating layers of brownie crumbs, cheesecake filling, ganache, and caramel until cups are filled to the top, keeping layers neat and defined.
08 - Top with extra brownie crumbs and a final drizzle of ganache or caramel. Cover cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to set layers.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use a piping bag for cleaner, more distinct cheesecake layers. Overnight chilling enhances flavor melding and layer definition.
02 - Store covered in the refrigerator up to three days or freeze fully wrapped for up to one month; thaw overnight before serving.
03 - For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and opt for gluten-free brownies if needed.