There’s a wonderful thrill in blending two beloved desserts into one decadent masterpiece, and that’s exactly what you’re about to experience with this Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies coupled with the creamy delight of a Basque cheesecake—an unexpected but magical combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
I created this recipe one rainy afternoon, searching for the perfect dessert to impress my friends at our upcoming dinner party. I wanted something indulgent yet guilt-free, and after a few tweaks in the kitchen, this luscious creation emerged. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a conversation starter, delivering an explosion of flavor that surprises and satisfies.
What’s truly remarkable is how effortlessly this recipe comes together. With just a bit of patience for the chilling time, you can showcase a dessert that looks like it took hours in a gourmet bakery. Get ready to wow your taste buds and your dinner companions with this vegan delight that’s easy enough to whip up any day of the week!
Why is Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake irresistible?
Decadent combination: This recipe marries the fudgy richness of brownies with the creamy texture of Basque cheesecake, creating a decadent experience in every bite.
Effortless preparation: With minimal ingredients, this delightful dessert comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress friends and family with a dessert that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make!
Adaptable sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugars to suit your taste preferences, ensuring it’s just right for you.
Vegan indulgence: Enjoy all the flavors without compromising your dietary choices, proving that deliciousness can be guilt-free.
Chill out: Prepare ahead for an impressive dessert that only gets better as it chills — just pop it in the fridge and relax! For some extra fun, don’t forget to check out our vegan ganache recipe for the perfect topping!
Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter
- Vegan butter or coconut oil – 1/4 cup (57 g) melted adds richness; coconut oil brings a subtle tropical flavor.
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder – 1/4 cup (25 g) for deep chocolate flavor in your brownies.
- Vegan chocolate – 3 ounces, melted; choose high-quality chocolate for a luxurious taste.
- Dairy free milk – 1/8 cup (40 mL), room temperature; helps create a moist brownie texture.
- Granulated sugar – 1/3 cup (75 g) to sweeten the brownies without overpowering their rich taste.
- Brown sugar – 1/4 cup (50 g) adds moisture and caramel notes.
- Dairy free yogurt – 1/4 cup (50 g) helps achieve the perfect fudgy texture in your brownies.
- Vanilla extract – 1/2 tsp to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Sea salt – 1/4 tsp balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
- All-purpose flour or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour – 3/4 cup (100 g) for structure; gluten-free options are perfect for those with sensitivities.
- Vegan chocolate chips – 1/4 cup (40 g), optional; fold them in for extra chocolatey goodness.
For the Cheesecake Layer
- Vegan cream cheese – 16 ounces (450 g), room temperature creates the creamy base for your cheesecake.
- Dairy free yogurt – 1/4 cup (60 g), room temperature for added creaminess and tang.
- Vegan heavy cream – 3/4 cup (180 mL), room temperature makes your cheesecake luscious and rich.
- Organic granulated sugar – 3/4 cup (150 g) to sweeten and maintain a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Cornstarch or arrowroot starch – 2 tbsp (24 g) helps the cheesecake set perfectly.
- Melted vegan chocolate – 5 ounces (140 g) mixed in for an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
- Dutch-process cocoa powder – 2 tbsp adds depth to the cheesecake layer.
For Topping and Garnish
- Vegan ganache – 1/2 batch, to drizzle a dreamy chocolate topping on your cheesecake.
- Brownie bites – From another batch, if desired; they’re a fun garnish and an extra treat!
Get ready to embark on a wonderful journey with this Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake that will surely sweep your taste buds off their feet!
How to Make Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your cheesecake comes out easily after baking.
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Melt the vegan butter in the microwave until hot. Pour it over the vegan chocolate in a heat-safe bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until fully melted, then add cocoa powder and mix until dissolved. Set aside.
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Cream together the dairy-free milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, dairy-free yogurt, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a medium bowl with a hand mixer. Mix until the sugar is nearly dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
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Combine the melted chocolate fudge from step 2 into the creamed mixture and mix until just blended. Then, gently fold in the flour, mixing on low speed just until integrated.
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Fold in the additional vegan chocolate chips using a silicone spatula for a delightful burst of chocolate. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to the edges.
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Blend all cheesecake ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, spreading it evenly to the edges to create two beautiful layers.
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Bake for 24 minutes, then turn the oven to broil. Broil for 1-2 minutes until the top starts to burn slightly, creating a gorgeous golden finish!
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Cool for 20-30 minutes before covering with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up perfectly.
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Serve by topping with vegan chocolate ganache and placing additional brownie bites on top. Slice, serve, and enjoy every decadent bite!
Optional: Drizzle with extra ganache for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can prepare the brownie batter and cheesecake layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the brownie ingredients and pour the mixture into the prepared pan. For the cheesecake, blend the ingredients and pour it over the brownie batter. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed, cool for 20-30 minutes, and let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. This way, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert waiting for you with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the creamy, chocolatey goodness of this cheesecake.
- Fresh Berries: Their tartness complements the rich flavors beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to each decadent bite.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping brings a tropical twist, making every slice feel like a slice of paradise.
- Espresso or Coffee: Rich coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, creating a harmonious blend that coffee lovers will adore.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: This refreshing choice adds a cool twist and delightful crunch, creating a refreshing palate experience.
- Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies provide a perfect scoop for the cheesecake, adding a delightful texture that elevates your dessert game.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: An extra layer of chocolate sauce enhances the chocolatey goodness, captivating dessert lovers with every mouthful.
- Vanilla Almond Milkshake: Creamy and rich, this shake acts as a luscious contrast, enhancing the vegan experience without overpowering flavors.
- Hazelnut Coffee: Its nutty undertones complement the chocolate beautifully, making each sip an indulgent treat alongside your cheesecake.
- Chilled Fruit Salad: A combination of seasonal fruits lightens the meal and offers a vibrant, colorful addition to the dessert table.
- Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries: This indulgent treat echoes the chocolatey theme, making for a perfect romantic addition to your dinner table.
Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious variations that can make your dessert uniquely yours!
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract into the cream cheese layer for a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a surprising, warming heat that enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Berry Bliss: Swirl in a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries into the cheesecake layer before baking for a fruity burst.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle vegan caramel sauce over the cheesecake before baking for an added layer of sweetness and texture.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute 1/4 cup of dairy-free yogurt with coconut cream for a tropical flavor that complements the brownie base.
- Zesty Touch: Mix in 1 tsp of lemon or orange zest into the cheesecake layer for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour to create a gluten-free version that retains its delicious charm.
Each of these variations allows you to play with flavors and textures, making each baking experience an adventure. Enjoy crafting your perfect dessert!
Expert Tips for Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if possible. Precise measurements ensure the right texture and flavor in your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all dairy-free products are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter without lumps.
- Chocolate Quality Matters: Always opt for high-quality vegan chocolate. It elevates the overall flavor and texture of your cheesecake and brownie layers.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the brownie batter just until integrated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
- Chill Time is Crucial: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least four hours or overnight. This step is key for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.
- Garnish Creatively: Feel free to experiment with toppings. Apart from vegan ganache, fresh berries or nuts can add a delightful crunch to your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake
Fridge: Keep your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to use an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: If you want to prolong its life, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight. You can also leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours if you prefer a quicker option.
Reheating: For a warm treat, lightly reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until they are slightly warmed through.
Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best vegan chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, opt for high-quality dark vegan chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. Look for options that list cocoa solids as the first ingredient and avoid brands with unnecessary additives. It’s worth it to splurge on premium chocolate, as it greatly enhances the taste of your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake.
How should I store leftovers of the vegan cheesecake?
Very easy! Store your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To avoid it drying out, make sure to cover it well. If you want to keep it longer, you can slice it and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to freeze slices of the cheesecake?
I often recommend freezing slices to enjoy later! To do this, individually wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label the container with the date so you can enjoy your Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake within 3 months for the best flavor and texture.
Can I adjust the sweetness in the recipe?
Certainly! If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar and brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons each. You can also substitute with other sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave nectar; just keep in mind that the liquid content may need slight adjustment for the optimal texture.
How can I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Great question! To prevent cracking, ensure all your cream cheese and yogurt ingredients are at room temperature, as this creates a smoother batter. Also, avoid overbaking; take it out as soon as the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. Letting it cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating helps too.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes, it absolutely is! Simply use gluten-free 1:1 baking flour as a substitute for regular all-purpose flour. This will maintain the delightful texture of the brownies without any worry for gluten sensitivity. Enjoy making this Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake worry-free!
Decadent Vegan Brownie Basque Cheesecake You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the vegan butter in the microwave until hot. Pour it over the vegan chocolate in a heat-safe bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until fully melted, then add cocoa powder and mix until dissolved. Set aside.
- Cream together the dairy-free milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, dairy-free yogurt, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a medium bowl with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine the melted chocolate mixture from step 2 into the creamed mixture and mix until just blended. Gently fold in the flour, mixing on low speed just until integrated.
- Fold in the additional vegan chocolate chips using a silicone spatula. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to the edges.
- Blend all cheesecake ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, spreading it evenly to the edges.
- Bake for 24 minutes, then turn the oven to broil and broil for 1-2 minutes until the top starts to burn slightly.
- Cool for 20-30 minutes before covering with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve by topping with vegan chocolate ganache and placing additional brownie bites on top.