Introduction

This Caramel Cream Cheese Brownie Tart combines rich, fudgy chocolate with a luscious caramel cream cheese swirl for a decadent dessert experience. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and homemade.

A round tart sits on a white plate, showing a swirled top layer with dark brown and light tan colors mixed in an abstract, flowing pattern. The crust is golden brown with a slightly scalloped edge that frames the tart. The tart is placed on a white marbled surface, with a light yellow cake server beside the plate, positioned diagonally at the bottom right. The swirling pattern on the tart’s surface looks smooth and creamy, creating a striking contrast between the two main colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ ounces semi sweet baking chocolate
¼ cup room temperature coffee (or the same amount of water)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup butter (salted preferred)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 large eggs
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
8 ounces very soft cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat, not no-fat)
½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or storebought)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9 or 10-inch tart pan with a removable bottom with cooking spray. Line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper, then place the tart pan on a large baking sheet.
Step 2: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the coffee (or water), chocolate, sugar, and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth and melted. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the cocoa powder, then whisk in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Gently fold in the flour and set the brownie batter aside.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until smooth and lighter in texture, about 30 seconds. Add the caramel sauce and mix well. Then stir in the egg, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
Step 5: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tart pan, reserving about ¼ cup. Spread the cream cheese caramel mixture evenly over the top, trying to cover as much of the brownie base as possible.
Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter over the cream cheese layer. Using a skewer or sharp knife, gently swirl the two layers together to create a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 22 to 28 minutes, until it is slightly puffed, set, and no longer jiggly in the center.
Step 8: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature. Carefully remove it from the pan before serving. Optional: top with whipped cream, a sprig of mint, and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature coffee instead of water to deepen the chocolate flavor without adding a strong coffee taste.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Make your own caramel sauce for a fresh, buttery flavor, or choose a high-quality storebought option for convenience.
Ensure the cream cheese is very soft to avoid lumps and make swirling easier.

Storage

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy, let it come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds. The tart can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a round tart with two main layers: a dark brown crust and a marbled filling on top. The crust is thick and crumbly with ridged edges, evenly covering the base and sides of the tart. The filling is smooth and creamy, featuring a mix of light tan and rich dark brown swirled together in a flowing, artistic pattern that covers the entire surface. The tart is placed on a white plate with the background replaced by white marbled texture, highlighting the tart's colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pan?

Yes, you can use a 9-inch springform pan or a standard baking pan, but the tart may be thicker or thinner and baking times might vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this tart dairy-free?

You can try substituting butter and cream cheese with dairy-free versions, and use a dairy-free caramel sauce, but the texture and flavor may differ from the original recipe.