Description
This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is a decadent combination of two beloved desserts: cheesecake and crème brûlée. With a smooth, creamy filling, buttery graham cracker crust, and a perfectly crisp caramelized sugar topping, this showstopper dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Brûlée Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures your cheesecake cooks evenly and achieves the perfect texture. - Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and compact. Bake for about 10 minutes to set the crust. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and silky. - Pour the Filling into the Pan:
Carefully pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. This will form the luscious, creamy base of your cheesecake. - Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy, smooth texture. - Cool and Chill:
Once the cheesecake is baked, let it cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Afterward, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results). This chilling time allows the cheesecake to set and become perfectly creamy. - Make the Brûlée Topping:
Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, gently caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden-brown topping. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cheesecake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. - Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cheesecake and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery crust, and sweet, crispy brûlée topping. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat!
Notes
- Be sure to let the cheesecake chill completely before adding the brûlée topping for best results.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular pie dish, but be cautious when removing the cheesecake after baking.
- For a more intense vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Keywords: Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, Cheesecake, Caramelized Sugar, Dessert, Special Occasion, Homemade Cheesecake