Description
This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of two beloved desserts! It features a rich, creamy cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping that cracks just like traditional crème brûlée. With a buttery graham cracker crust and silky smooth filling, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests with an elegant treat!
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
Crème Brûlée Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is just set. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, melt the sugar until it turns golden brown and forms a crisp caramel layer. Let it set for a minute before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- If you don’t have a kitchen torch, broil the sugar topping in the oven for 1-2 minutes (watch closely!)
- For an ultra-smooth texture, use room-temperature ingredients and mix on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Let the cheesecake chill completely before caramelizing the sugar to ensure a firm texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American