Decadent Caramel Brownie Cheesecake (Printer-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Brownie Base

01 - 1 package of brownie mix (use the additional ingredients as directed on the package)

→ For the Cheesecake Layer

02 - 24 ounces (three 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 3 large eggs
06 - ¼ cup sour cream
07 - ¼ cup heavy cream

→ For the Caramel Swirl

08 - ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling on top)

→ For Garnish

09 - Whipped cream
10 - Chocolate shavings

# Let's Cook!:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions and pour it into the pan. Bake as directed, then let the brownie base cool completely.
02 - Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream, blending until the batter is completely smooth.
03 - Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie base. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect.
04 - Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, remove and cool to room temperature.
05 - Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and chocolate shavings.

# Cook's Notes:

01 - Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to prevent cracks. Mix just until smooth.
02 - To prevent cracking, bake at a low temperature and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven.
03 - The cheesecake is done when the center has a slight wobble. A toothpick should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
04 - Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to set and the texture to firm up.