Get ready to swoon over the ultimate sweet treat: Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups. These little jars of joy are the perfect marriage of fudgy brownies, cookies-and-cream cheesecake, a swirl of caramel, and just about every decadent mix-in you could ever crave. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating your family, or just indulging yourself after a long week, each bite of these dessert cups layers rich textures and dreamy flavors. Trust me, this is one dessert you’ll find endless reasons to make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up these magic cups. Each component brings something essential, from the chocolatey base to the creamy filling and all the fun toppings that make every spoonful a new discovery.
- Brownie mix (1 box, 18.4 oz): Your shortcut to a fudgy, chocolatey base—bake, cool, and cut into cubes for effortless layering.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The heart of the cheesecake layer, adding luscious creaminess and a slight tang.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake for that classic taste everyone loves.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Just a splash brings warmth and depth to the filling.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): When whipped, it folds lightness into the cheesecake mixture.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the whipped cream for an ultra-smooth finish.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Sprinkle these in for a chocolate burst in every bite.
- Chopped Oreos (1/2 cup): Adds cookies-and-cream crunch to the cheesecake filling.
- Caramel sauce (1/4 cup): Drizzled for that extra gooey, golden ribbon of indulgence.
- Whipped cream (for topping): Crown your cups with fluffy, light sweetness.
- Extra brownie chunks (for garnish): Because there’s no such thing as too much brownie!
- Extra chocolate chips and Oreos (for garnish): Sprinkle over the top for visual flair and even more texture.
How to Make Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups
Step 1: Bake and Prep the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the brownie mix according to the package directions. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely—this is key! A firm, cool brownie is much easier to cut into tidy little cubes for layering. Once chilled, slice them into small, bite-sized pieces; these will be the adorable, chocolatey base and garnish of your Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together. You want this to be creamy, luscious, and totally smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form—this gives the cheesecake filling its signature lightness. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese base until fully combined, being careful not to deflate all that lovely air. Stir in the mini chocolate chips and chopped Oreos for cookies-and-cream magic.
Step 3: Layer It All Up
Now comes the truly fun part—assembly! Start with a layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of each dessert cup. Spoon a generous dollop of the cheesecake mixture over the brownies, then drizzle with caramel sauce. Want an extra-decadent twist? Add a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella before the next layer. Repeat the layers if you’re using larger cups for extra wow factor.
Step 4: The Grand Finale
Once you’ve built your delicious towers, top each cup with a swirl of whipped cream, extra brownie chunks, mini chocolate chips, and Oreo pieces. The more playful you get with the toppings, the more irresistible each cup becomes. For the dreamiest texture, chill the assembled cups for at least an hour before serving—trust me, the wait is worth it!
How to Serve Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups
Garnishes
Add the finishing touch to your Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups by going all out with the toppings. A towering swirl of whipped cream, a shower of mini chocolate chips, a few fresh brownie chunks, and a sprinkle of Oreo crumbles will make every single cup look and taste absolutely show-stopping. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of caramel for the full wow effect!
Side Dishes
While these dessert cups are a showpiece all on their own, you can balance their sweetness with a platter of fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even a light fruit salad. If you want to go all out for a dessert buffet, consider adding some salty snacks like pretzels or a bowl of mixed nuts for that irresistible sweet-and-salty combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Mini mason jars, clear cocktail glasses, or even shot glasses make for charming individual servings that showcase all those tempting layers. Tie a ribbon around each cup for special occasions, or let guests build their own at a dessert bar station. However you serve them, Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups will always steal the spotlight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have extra Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups (trust me, it’s rare!), pop them in the fridge, well covered. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, though the brownie bits will get a little softer over time—which some might say makes them even better.
Freezing
Want to make a batch ahead and save for later? Assemble the cups without the final garnishes and tightly cover each one before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then add fresh toppings for just-made appeal. The texture of the cheesecake stays surprisingly creamy even after freezing.
Reheating
No need to reheat these beauties, since they’re designed to be enjoyed chilled! Simply place any leftovers straight from the fridge onto the counter for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off—this enhances the flavors and makes digging in even more satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, grab your favorite store-bought brownies and cut them into cubes. The Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups will taste fantastic, and nobody will know you took a shortcut.
Is it necessary to chill the dessert cups before serving?
While you could dig in right away, chilling the Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups for at least an hour lets the flavors meld and the cheesecake layer set up nicely. The result is a firmer, dreamier texture that’s definitely worth the wait.
Can I swap in other mix-ins or toppings?
Yes! Get creative with your favorite add-ins—try white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of raspberry jam instead of caramel. The beauty of Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups is you can personalize them for any craving or occasion.
How far in advance can I make these?
You can assemble Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups up to 24 hours in advance. Just add any garnishes and whipped cream right before serving to keep everything looking and tasting fresh.
Are these cups kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love assembling their own cups and all those gooey, crunchy, chocolatey elements are guaranteed to win them over. Just be sure to assemble smaller portions for little hands.
Final Thoughts
If you have a soft spot for decadent, customizable desserts, you’re going to fall hard for Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups. Gather your mix-ins, layer up, and savor every swoon-worthy bite. Don’t be surprised if these become your most requested treat—give them a try and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Print
Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (brownies)
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 8 dessert cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (assembly), Baking (brownies)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups that combine the richness of brownies with the creaminess of cheesecake, topped with a drizzle of caramel and a mix of chocolatey goodness. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings!
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1 box (18.4 oz) brownie mix, prepared and baked according to package directions
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped Oreos
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Extra brownie chunks
- Extra chocolate chips and Oreos
Instructions
- Bake the Brownies: Prepare and bake the brownie mix according to package instructions. Allow to cool and cut into small cubes.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and Oreos.
- Assemble the Dessert Cups: Layer brownie chunks at the bottom of each cup. Add a scoop of cheesecake mixture, drizzle with caramel sauce. Repeat layers if using larger cups. Top with whipped cream, brownie chunks, chocolate chips, and Oreos. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- You can use store-bought brownies for convenience.
- For an extra decadent twist, add a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella between layers.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cheesecake mixture for 30 minutes before assembling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 dessert cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
