Crème Brûlée Cheesecake
Rich, creamy cheesecake meets the elegant crackly caramelized topping of classic crème brûlée in this luxurious dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, silky vanilla cheesecake filling, and crisp caramel sugar layer, this show-stopping treat is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you want a bakery-style dessert at home.
⏱ Time Required
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours or overnight
- Total Time: About 8 hours
🍽 Servings
10–12 slices
🛒 Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Crème Brûlée Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix until fully combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, sour cream, and cornstarch until silky smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top. Place the springform pan into a larger baking pan and add hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
Bake for 65–70 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and allow cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour. Remove and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Create the Crème Brûlée Topping
Once chilled, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the cheesecake top.
Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crisp. Let sit for 2–3 minutes so the topping hardens into the classic crackly brûlée layer.
💡 Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
- Water baths help prevent cracks and create a creamy texture.
- If you do not have a torch, place under a broiler briefly, watching carefully.
- Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
🥗 Nutrition (Approx. Per Slice)
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 38g
- Carbs: 36g
- Protein: 8g
🧊 Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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