The Dreamiest Creme Brulee Cheesecake Recipe Ever Crafted

Dessert dreams come alive with this decadent creme brulee cheesecake that marries two beloved classics into one luxurious treat.

The silky smooth texture and rich flavors dance across your palate with every heavenly bite.

Creamy cheesecake layers blend seamlessly with the signature caramelized sugar crust of traditional creme brulee.

This elegant dessert promises to impress even the most discerning sweet tooth with its complex yet approachable profile.

The delicate balance of smooth cream cheese and crisp caramel creates a symphony of textures that will leave you craving more.

With just a few simple ingredients and some careful technique, you can craft a restaurant-worthy dessert right in your own kitchen.

What Sets Creme Brulee Cheesecake Apart

• Simplify Dessert Elegance: Transform two classic desserts into one stunning masterpiece that impresses guests without requiring professional baking skills.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crispy caramelized sugar topping of creme brulee, creating a foolproof dessert that appeals to all ages.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Uses basic pantry staples and standard baking tools, making this recipe accessible for home cooks with any skill level who want a gourmet-style treat.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the entire cheesecake in advance and torch the sugar topping just before serving, reducing day-of stress and allowing more time to enjoy with family and friends.

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Ingredient List

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A sweet and crunchy base that provides texture and flavor to the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps it bind together.
• Butter, Melted: Helps the crust ingredients stick together and creates a rich, golden base.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the cream cheese's tanginess.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
• Vanilla: Adds a warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
• Heavy Cream, Sour Cream: Contribute to the rich, velvety texture of the cheesecake.

• Sugar: Creates a crisp, caramelized layer on top of the cheesecake, giving it the classic creme brulee finish.

Baking Steps for Creme Brulee Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Warm up the oven to 325°F.

Lightly coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Crunchy Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Sugar
• Melted butter

Combine the ingredients in a bowl until well mixed.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 10 minutes.

Remove and let cool completely.

Step 3: Mix Creamy Cheesecake Filling

• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream
• Sour cream

Whip cream cheese and sugar together until silky smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly between each addition.

Gently fold in vanilla, heavy cream, and sour cream until the mixture is uniform and velvety.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust.

Bake for 50-55 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Create Caramelized Topping

Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar across the top of the cooled cheesecake.

Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and develops a crisp, glassy surface.

Let the caramel cool and harden before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake

• Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a water bath to ensure even baking and prevent surface cracks.
• Beat cream cheese at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling for a silky cheesecake consistency.
• Hold the kitchen torch 2-3 inches away from the sugar and move constantly to create an even, golden-brown caramel topping without burning.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely and develop deeper flavors.
• Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts for a celiac-friendly crust.

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Crème Brûlée Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Caramel Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace eggs with silken tofu or aquafaba.
• Chocolate Espresso Crème Brûlée Cheesecake: Add melted dark chocolate and instant espresso powder to the cheesecake batter for a rich, coffee-infused dessert.
• Low-Carb Keto Cheesecake: Use a nut-based crust with erythritol or stevia as sweetener, and replace sugar with a keto-friendly alternative during caramelization.

Serving Creme Brulee Cheesecake Slices

• Sweet Finish Plating: Dust the top with powdered sugar and add fresh berries around the edges for a pop of color and tangy contrast.
• Elegant Dessert Companion: Serve alongside a small glass of dessert wine or coffee to elevate the dining experience and complement the rich, creamy texture.
• Texture Contrast Garnish: Sprinkle some crushed caramelized almonds or pistachios on top to add a delightful crunch that balances the smooth cheesecake surface.
• Presentation Wow Factor: Place a delicate mint leaf or edible flower on each slice to create a restaurant-quality visual appeal that makes the dessert look professionally crafted.

Storage Guidance for Cheesecake Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture and flavor absorption from other foods.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 1 month without compromising texture and taste.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake to refrigerator overnight. Remove plastic wrap before serving to prevent condensation and soggy texture.
• Warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the cheesecake rubbery and lose its delicate caramelized sugar topping.

FAQs

• What ingredients make this cheesecake different from classic cheesecake?

The key difference is the addition of sour cream and heavy cream, which create an extra creamy and rich texture compared to traditional cheesecake recipes.

• How do I know when the cheesecake is properly baked?

The cheesecake is done when the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid, and the edges are set. It should have a subtle wobble when gently shaken.

• Can I make this recipe without a kitchen torch?

Yes, you can use the broiler in your oven to caramelize the sugar topping. Place the cheesecake close to the top heating element and watch carefully to prevent burning.

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Recipe

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4.5 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy creme brulee cheesecake blends French elegance with classic American dessert charm, creating a luxurious fusion of silky textures and caramelized sugar. Dessert enthusiasts will savor each decadent spoonful of this indulgent culinary masterpiece that promises pure bliss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Base:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (113 grams)

Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream (240 milliliters)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (60 milliliters)

Flavoring:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan with a light coating of grease.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
3. Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky smooth consistency, incorporating eggs individually to maintain a uniform texture.
4. Gently fold in vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sour cream, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly integrated without overmixing.
5. Transfer the creamy mixture onto the prepared crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes at 325°F, watching for a slight jiggle in the center that indicates proper doneness.
7. Remove from oven and let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours to set completely.
8. Before serving, generously dust the surface with a thin, even layer of granulated sugar.
9. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar, moving continuously until it transforms into a golden, crisp crust with a glossy amber finish.
10. Let the caramelized sugar harden for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Check cream cheese temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free texture.
• Use room temperature eggs for better integration and consistent cheesecake consistency.
• Avoid over-mixing batter to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracking during baking.
• Pat graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid, stable base for the cheesecake.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 423
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg