Brownie Cupcake Cheesecakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease with butter.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together over low heat. Stir occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix in the sugar: Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the sugar until well combined.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add dry ingredients: Stir in the flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined (don’t overmix).

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sugar and vanilla: Mix in the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the egg: Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
4. For extra creaminess, stir in the sour cream.

Step 3: Assemble the Brownie Cupcake Cheesecakes

1. Scoop brownie batter: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of brownie batter into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
2. Add cheesecake batter: Using a spoon or piping bag, top the brownie layer with about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake batter.
3. Swirl the layers (optional): Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the brownie and cheesecake layers together to create a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the brownie layer comes out with just a few crumbs (it’s okay if it’s slightly gooey).
2. Cool the brownies in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooled, you can garnish with whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fruit if desired.
2. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate for a few hours for a firmer cheesecake texture.

Tips:

• Add-ins: You can stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl in some raspberry or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
• Storage: These can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to a month.

Enjoy your Brownie Cupcake Cheesecakes—a decadent dessert that combines two beloved treats into one!