Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cup

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with cupcake liners (12 cups).
2. Make the Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, or make your homemade brownie batter by combining melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until smooth.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of brownie batter into each muffin cup. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter into an even layer.
4. Bake the Brownie Layer: Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownie comes out slightly clean. The brownies should be slightly underbaked as they will bake more when topped with the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. Add sour cream for a creamier texture if desired. Beat until fully combined.
2. Top the Brownie Layer: Once the brownie layer is slightly cooled, scoop a heaping tablespoon of the cheesecake mixture onto each brownie. Use a spoon or offset spatula to gently spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the brownie layer.
3. Bake the Cheesecake Cups: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for another 15-18 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and slightly golden at the edges. It should still be slightly jiggly in the center.
4. Cool the Cups: Let the cheesecake cups cool to room temperature in the muffin tin, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the cheesecake set properly and makes it easier to remove the cups from the tin.

Step 3: Add Toppings

1. Top with Mini Chocolate Chips: Once the cheesecake cups are fully chilled, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top of each one. You can also add crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or any cookie of your choice for added texture and flavor.
2. Garnish with Whipped Cream: Optionally, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream for a little extra indulgence.
3. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For a final touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cups, or use any other sauce you prefer (chocolate, strawberry, etc.).
4. Chop and Sprinkle Nuts: If desired, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the cheesecake cups from the muffin tin and serve chilled. These are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet indulgent treat for yourself!

Tips for Success:

• Make-Ahead: These cheesecake cups are perfect for making ahead of time. They need to chill in the fridge, so they’re ideal for preparing the day before serving.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to your taste—try adding fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
• Storing: Store the leftover cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Cups—a perfect combination of rich brownie, creamy cheesecake, and endless topping possibilities!