Description
These Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a decadent dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the crispy, caramelized top of crème brûlée. With individual portions, they’re perfect for impressing guests at any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these little cheesecakes are sure to steal the show!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheesecake Base:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – The perfect base for these cheesecakes.
- ¼ cup sugar – Sweetens the graham cracker crust.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – To bind the crust together.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy base of the cheesecake.
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds richness and smoothness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness in the cheesecake filling.
- 2 large eggs – To set the cheesecake and add creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that classic cheesecake flavor.
- Pinch of salt – To enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream – For a rich, creamy topping.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – For caramelizing the topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of each muffin cup or mini cheesecake pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crusts, filling each cup about ¾ full.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecakes
- Place the cheesecake pans on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set properly.
Step 4: Add the Crème Brûlée Topping
- Once the cheesecakes are fully chilled, gently spoon about 1 teaspoon of sugar onto the top of each cheesecake.
- Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crispy. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cheesecakes under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve these mini cheesecakes as individual desserts and enjoy the crispy topping with the creamy filling.
Notes
- Use a good-quality cream cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Make sure the cheesecakes are fully chilled before brûlée-ing the sugar to get that crispy texture.
- If you don’t have a torch, broiling works, but be cautious and watch it carefully to avoid burning the sugar.
- For extra flavor, add a little lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a citrusy twist.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American