This Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of a brownie crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. Topped with a glossy ganache and colorful candy-coated chips, this treat brings together the best of both worlds—cheesecake and brownies—into one irresistible dessert. Perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests with a stunning, indulgent dessert.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• For the Brownie Crust:

  • 1 box of brownie mix (or homemade brownie recipe)

  • 1/4 cup water (or as directed by the brownie mix)

  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or as directed by the brownie mix)

  • 1 large egg (or as directed by the brownie mix)

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

• For the Ganache:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup colorful candy-coated chocolate chips (like M&Ms or similar)

Directions

1. Prepare the Brownie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions and pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft. Let it cool completely.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled brownie crust, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour in the oven with the door slightly ajar. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Make the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and glossy. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then pour it over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly.

5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the colorful candy-coated chocolate chips on top of the ganache for a fun, vibrant finish.

6. Serve: Slice and serve chilled.

Nutrients

• Calories: 350 kcal per slice

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Protein: 5g

• Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 14g

• Sugars: 22g

• Fiber: 1g

• Cholesterol: 70mg

• Sodium: 230mg

The Brownie Crust: A Decadent Base

At the heart of Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is the brownie crust. The brownie layer provides a fudgy, chocolatey base that is the perfect foundation for the creamy cheesecake filling. The crust is made using a box of brownie mix, making it quick and easy to prepare. While some desserts call for a traditional pie or graham cracker crust, the brownie crust gives this cheesecake a richer, more indulgent flavor that perfectly complements the tangy cream cheese filling.

What makes the brownie crust so special is the contrast it provides to the creamy cheesecake. The brownie is dense, rich, and fudgy, while the cheesecake filling is light, smooth, and creamy. This balance of textures is what makes the dessert so satisfying. The crust also helps to bind the cheesecake filling together, providing a firm yet tender base that can hold the weight of the ganache and toppings without losing its shape.

The brownie crust is baked just enough to set it but remain soft and chewy in the center, providing the ideal base for the cheesecake layer. Its slight crispiness around the edges adds texture and flavor, making it the perfect complement to the creamy layers on top.

The Cheesecake Filling: Creamy and Velvety

The cheesecake filling is the heart of this dessert, and it’s what sets Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake apart from other brownies or cheesecakes. Made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream, the filling is velvety smooth and rich in flavor. The cream cheese provides a tangy, slightly savory base, while the sugar and vanilla extract add sweetness and depth. The eggs give the cheesecake structure, while the sour cream and heavy cream contribute to the rich, creamy texture that’s a hallmark of a good cheesecake.

One of the secrets to making the perfect cheesecake filling is to ensure that the cream cheese is softened before mixing. This allows it to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth, lump-free batter. The combination of sour cream and heavy cream helps to create a creamy consistency that isn’t too dense, allowing it to complement the denser brownie base. This balance between the rich, tangy cream cheese and the velvety smoothness from the dairy creates the perfect filling for this decadent dessert.

Baking and Assembling the Cheesecake

Assembling Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake involves layering the brownie crust with the cheesecake filling. Once the brownie base has been baked and cooled, the cheesecake filling is poured over the top and spread evenly. The key to a perfect cheesecake is to ensure that the batter is evenly distributed to avoid air bubbles. Tapping the pan gently helps to release any trapped air and ensures that the filling settles smoothly.

The cheesecake is baked at a slightly lower temperature to ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t crack. A well-baked cheesecake should have slightly firm edges with a slightly jiggly center. This is a good indication that the cheesecake has set without overbaking, which can result in a dry, cracked filling. After baking, it’s important to let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar before refrigerating it. This gradual cooling process helps to prevent cracks and keeps the cheesecake creamy and smooth.

Once the cheesecake has chilled for several hours or overnight, it’s ready to be topped with the rich ganache and colorful candy-coated chocolate chips.

The Glossy Ganache: The Perfect Finishing Touch

A glossy ganache is the ideal topping for this cheesecake, adding a layer of richness and sweetness that complements the brownie crust and cheesecake filling. The ganache is made by heating heavy cream and pouring it over semi-sweet chocolate chips. The mixture is stirred until smooth and glossy, then poured over the chilled cheesecake. The ganache sets to form a shiny, smooth layer that adds both flavor and a beautiful finish to the dessert.

The ganache isn’t just for looks—it also enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake. The slightly bitter taste of the semi-sweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a rich, satisfying bite. The ganache adds an extra layer of decadence, making this dessert truly indulgent. Its smooth, velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the chewy brownie crust and creamy cheesecake filling, elevating the entire dessert to new heights.

The Topping: Colorful Candy-Coated Chocolate Chips

The final touch on Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is the colorful candy-coated chocolate chips. These vibrant candies add a pop of color and a playful element to the dessert, making it not only delicious but visually striking. The candy-coated chips bring a sweet crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the ganache and cheesecake filling. Their bright colors also add a fun, festive feel to the dessert, making it perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or any celebration.

The candy-coated chocolate chips are optional, but they make the cheesecake feel extra special. They’re not just a topping—they’re an invitation to enjoy the fun and whimsy of a dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats. Whether you choose to use M&Ms or a similar candy, the addition of these colorful chips ensures that every slice is not only tasty but visually appealing.

Perfect for Celebrations and Special Occasions

Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any celebration. Its impressive appearance and rich flavor make it ideal for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays. Whether served as the centerpiece of a dessert table or as an indulgent treat at a family gathering, this cheesecake is sure to wow your guests. Its combination of brownie and cheesecake layers, topped with ganache and candy-coated chocolate chips, creates a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.

Because it’s so visually striking, this dessert is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. The layers of chocolate, cream cheese, and candy-coated chips make it a conversation starter, and the rich, indulgent flavors ensure that it will be remembered long after the event is over.

Storing and Serving Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake

Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy occasions. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The ganache and cheesecake filling will stay smooth and creamy, and the brownie crust will remain deliciously chewy.

When it’s time to serve, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes to enhance its flavor and texture. This slight warming allows the ganache to soften, creating an even richer experience with every bite. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added sweetness and decadence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cosmic Brownie Cheesecake is a decadent, irresistible dessert that combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of a brownie with the smooth, creamy indulgence of a cheesecake. Topped with a glossy ganache and colorful candy-coated chocolate chips, it’s a show-stopping treat that will impress at any gathering. The combination of textures—from the chewy brownie crust to the creamy cheesecake filling and the smooth ganache—creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether for a celebration, holiday, or a special occasion, this cheesecake is a perfect way to end any meal and is sure to be a favorite among your guests. Its easy-to-make yet impressive nature makes it a must-try for anyone who loves decadent, visually stunning desserts.