Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe, where the silky richness of cheesecake meets the iconic caramelized top of classic French crème brûlée. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat, this dessert balances creamy textures with a crisp, golden finish. Combining a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and a delicate custard layer, it is a crowd-pleasing delight that will impress family and friends.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe
Decadent Flavor: The creamy cheesecake combined with caramelized custard offers a luxurious taste in every bite.
Elegant Presentation: The golden, crisp top adds a professional finish perfect for dinner parties.
Rich and Creamy Texture: Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake with a silky custard layer.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the custard or topping to your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be refrigerated overnight, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Classic Meets Modern: A sophisticated twist on traditional cheesecake and crème brûlée.
Impress Guests Effortlessly: Looks gourmet but is achievable at home.
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for tang)
For the Crème Brûlée Layer
3 large egg yolks
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Caramelizing the Top
1–2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Tip: Use high-quality cream cheese and fresh eggs to ensure the smoothest texture and richest flavor. For a gluten-free crust, substitute graham crackers with almond flour.
How to Make Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Cool before adding filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing thoroughly. Incorporate eggs one at a time, then add sour cream and optional lemon juice. Pour over the cooled crust.
Step 4: Bake Cheesecake
Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Let cool in oven with door ajar for 1 hour, then refrigerate 4+ hours or overnight.
Step 5: Make Crème Brûlée Layer
Heat heavy cream until simmering. Whisk egg yolks with sugar until pale. Gradually add hot cream to yolks, whisking constantly. Return to low heat for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add vanilla and let cool slightly.
Step 6: Assemble Cheesecake
Pour cooled custard over chilled cheesecake. Smooth with a spatula and refrigerate 1 hour for custard to set.
Step 7: Caramelize the Top
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly. Use a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize until golden and crisp. Slice and serve warm or chilled.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Bake at low temperature and allow gradual cooling in the oven. Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a smooth texture.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate overnight. The flavors meld beautifully, and the custard layer firms perfectly.
What’s the best way to caramelize the top?
Use a kitchen torch for precision. Broiler works too, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 7 g
Carbs: 32 g
Fat: 34 g
Sugars: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; lasts 1 month.
Reheat Tip: Serve chilled; briefly torch the top for fresh caramel crunch.
Variations
Diet-Friendly: Use Greek yogurt for lighter texture.
Flavor Twist: Add coffee, chocolate, or citrus zest to custard.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for single servings.
FAQs About Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Is the custard layer optional?
Absolutely! The cheesecake alone is delicious, but custard adds the signature crème brûlée experience.
Can I replace brown sugar for caramelization?
Yes, white granulated sugar works, but brown sugar creates a deeper caramel flavor.
Conclusion
Experience a luxurious dessert with this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe. With its creamy filling, silky custard, and caramelized top, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat. Unlock this recipe’s full flavor and reclaim your dessert game!