Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake. Combining the smooth, creamy richness of a classic cheesecake with the irresistible crispy sugar top of crème brûlée, this treat is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The creamy cheesecake base is baked to perfection, then topped with a caramelized sugar layer, creating a divine contrast. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a luxurious treat for yourself, this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake will leave everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the heavy cream, beating until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Prepare the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
- Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, pour the cream mixture over the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
- Caramelize the Sugar:
- Sprinkle the top of the cheesecake evenly with granulated sugar.
- Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it’s golden brown and crispy. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the cheesecake under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cheesecake and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Enjoy this perfect combination of rich cheesecake and the crispy crème brûlée topping!
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the cheesecake with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.