Loaded Brownie Cheesecake Dessert Cups

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brownies:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, stir together melted butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until smooth. Pour into a greased 8×8-inch pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until set. Let cool completely before cutting into small cubes or crumbling for layering.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy. Set aside.
3. Make the Ganache:
   Warm heavy cream until steaming (do not boil), then pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes to melt, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow to cool slightly before using.
4. Assemble the Dessert Cups:
   In each clear serving cup, start with a layer of crumbled brownie. Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake filling on top, followed by a generous drizzle of ganache. Repeat the layers once or twice, depending on the cup size. Finish with whipped cream, more brownie crumbles, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
5. Optional Chill:
   For firmer layers and cleaner presentation, refrigerate the assembled cups for 30 minutes before serving.

Variations:

• Cookie Crust: Swap the brownie base for crushed Oreos or chocolate chip cookies for a crunchier contrast.
• Nutty Swirl: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers, or a peanut butter drizzle in place of caramel.
• Fruity Twist: Top with sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fresh, tart element to cut the richness.
• Mint Chocolate: Mix a few drops of peppermint extract into the cheesecake layer for a refreshing variation.

Tips:

• Time Saver: Use store-bought brownie bites or pre-made ganache to cut down on prep time.
• Neat Layers: Pipe the cheesecake mixture using a piping bag for clean, professional-looking layers.
• Texture Control: Prefer a more set filling? Chill the cheesecake layer for 15 minutes before assembling.
• Make Ahead: Brownies and cheesecake filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored separately until ready to assemble.
• Presentation: Use glass cups or mason jars to show off the beautiful layers for maximum visual appeal.

This dessert is everything your sweet tooth craves, packed into a single cup — easy to make, impossible to resist.