This decadent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake elevates the classic cheesecake experience by incorporating the rich, caramelized flavors of crème brûlée, resulting in a creamy, velvety dessert with a delightful crunchy torched sugar topping, perfect for special occasions or indulging in a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing thoroughly until evenly moistened; press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a firm, even crust, and bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, gradually adding the sugar and cornstarch, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and creamy, then stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Incorporate Eggs and Cream: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition, then pour in the heavy cream and mix until smooth, ensuring not to overmix the batter.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan; bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly, then turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set firmly.
- Crème Brûlée Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the chilled cheesecake, and using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it is golden brown and bubbly, creating a hard, crunchy topping.
- Serve: Allow the caramelized sugar to cool slightly before slicing and serving the Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, enjoying the contrasting textures and rich flavors of this elegant dessert.