This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the delightful caramelized sugar crust of creme brulee. It’s a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Brulee Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (9 inches).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar, flour, and salt, beating until well combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
- Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and fill the larger pan with hot water to create a water bath (about halfway up the sides of the springform pan).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour to cool slowly.
- Then, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Make the Brulee Topping:
- Sprinkle the top of the chilled cheesecake evenly with granulated sugar.
- Torch the Sugar:
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar evenly over the entire surface of the cheesecake.
- Be careful not to burn the sugar.
- Serve:
- Cut into slices and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use mascarpone cheese instead of some of the cream cheese.
- Add a swirl of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache to the top of the cheesecake before torching the sugar.
- Use different types of cookies for the crust, such as crushed Oreos or speculoos cookies.
- Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Brulee Cheesecake!