Crème Brûlée Cheesecake: A Decadent Fusion of Two Classic Desserts

Crème brûlée and cheesecake are iconic desserts, each with its own unique charm. When combined, they create a masterpiece of creamy richness and caramelized perfection. This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake blends the luscious texture of cheesecake with the crispy, caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée, making it the ultimate dessert for special occasions or to impress guests.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
• A pinch of salt (optional)

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Equipment Needed

• 9-inch springform pan
• Food processor (for graham cracker crumbs)
• Electric mixer (for blending the filling)
• Kitchen torch (to caramelize the sugar)
• A water bath (optional, for a smoother texture)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Crush the graham crackers: If not using pre-made crumbs, crush whole graham crackers in a food processor or a ziplock bag with a rolling pin.
2. Mix ingredients: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Stir until evenly mixed and the crumbs hold together when pressed.
3. Form the crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
4. Bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until golden. Let it cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Blend the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the sugar and vanilla: Gradually mix in the sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Incorporate the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next.
4. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream: Add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until the filling is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare a water bath (optional): Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish, halfway up the sides of the pan.
2. Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Crème Brûlée Topping

1. Sprinkle sugar: Evenly spread 1/4 cup granulated sugar over the chilled cheesecake.
2. Caramelize: Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust.
3. Serve: Allow the topping to cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

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Pro Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth filling.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
• If you don’t have a kitchen torch, broil the sugar topping in the oven, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is the best of both worlds—a creamy, dreamy filling with the irresistible crunch of caramelized sugar. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or when you simply want to indulge in a luxurious dessert.

Enjoy this fusion of flavors, and get ready for compliments with every bite!