How to Make Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups: Step-by-Step Guide
Indulge in the perfect party treat with these Chocolate Ganache Topped Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups. Featuring layers of rich, fudgy brownie, smooth no-bake cheesecake, and a silky chocolate ganache finish, each cup delivers a sophisticated balance of texture and taste. Finished with mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, and drizzles of caramel and hot fudge, these mini desserts are as visually stunning as they are irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or looking to impress at a potluck, these easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing cups will be the star of your dessert table.
Ingredients
For the brownie base:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically oil, water, and eggs)
For the cheesecake filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar), thawed
For the toppings:
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- ¼ cup hot fudge sauce
Instructions
Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let cool completely. Cut into small cubes.
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
To assemble, place brownie cubes at the bottom of small dessert cups or jars.
Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake filling over the brownie layer.
Top with a mix of mini chocolate chips and chopped cookies. Drizzle with caramel and hot fudge sauce.
Repeat layers if your cups are tall enough, finishing with toppings and drizzle.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
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Brownie Layer: Use a fudgy brownie for structural integrity; cakey brownies may crumble too easily in the cup.
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Cream Cheese Tip: Fully soften cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
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Whipped Topping Substitute: Stabilized homemade whipped cream can be used if preferred over store-bought.
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Ganache Cooling: Let ganache cool slightly before pouring—too hot and it will melt the cheesecake.
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Customization Ideas: Add flavored extracts like peppermint or almond to the cheesecake for seasonal twists.
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Serving Vessels: Glass cups create an elegant presentation, but clear plastic works well for large events or kids’ parties.
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Storage Tip: Keep tightly covered in the fridge to prevent the ganache from drying out or cracking.
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Freezer Option: Freeze without toppings; add ganache and garnishes after thawing for best texture.