Method: Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake

• Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease your 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and melted chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Add in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing well. Then, stir in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract until combined.
• Step 2: Add the Eggs and Dry Ingredients: Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the baking powder, salt, and flour, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies fudgy.
• Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layer: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
• Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Mix in the melted chocolate chunks, cocoa powder, flour, and vanilla extract.
• Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs and Sour Cream: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the sour cream gently, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy.
• Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled brownie layer, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
• Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake in the oven for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour.
• Step 8: Cool and Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Step 9: Serve with Toppings: Before serving, whip the heavy cream and add any desired toppings, such as shaved chocolate or whipped cream. Slice your Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake and enjoy!