Creating this delicious Caramel Brownie Cheesecake is easy when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

2. Make the Brownie Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

4. Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

5. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: While the brownie layer is baking, beat cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. Add granulated sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.

6. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

7. Layer the Cheesecake: Once the brownie layer is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer evenly.

8. Bake the Cheesecake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

9. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edge to loosen and then remove the sides of the springform pan.

10. Chill in the Fridge: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

11. Add the Caramel Sauce: Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if desired.