A Luxurious Fusion of Velvety Cheesecake & Crispy Caramelized Sugar
This showstopping dessert combines the rich, creamy texture of New York cheesecake with the crackly caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests!
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for baking)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (optional garnish)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham crumbs and butter, then press into the pan.
- Bake 10 mins, then cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Batter
- Beat cream cheese until smooth (~3 mins).
- Add sugar, then sour cream and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Stir in heavy cream and cornstarch.
3. Bake with Sugar Layer
- Pour batter over crust.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup sugar evenly over the top.
- Bake 50–60 mins until the center just jiggles slightly.
4. Cool Slowly
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cool 1 hour inside.
- Chill 4+ hours (or overnight).
5. Caramelize the Top
- Sprinkle remaining ¼ cup sugar over the chilled cheesecake.
- Torch until golden and bubbly (or broil 2–3 mins).
6. Serve!
- Garnish with berries if desired.
- Slice with a hot knife for clean cuts.
🌟 Pro Tips
🔥 Torching Secrets:
- Use superfine sugar for even caramelization.
- Hold torch 4–6 inches away to avoid burning.
🍰 Cheesecake Perfection:
- Room temp ingredients prevent cracks.
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs.
⏳ Make-Ahead:
- Uncaramelized cheesecake keeps refrigerated for 3 days.
- Caramelize just before serving for maximum crunch.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use a broiler instead of a torch?
Yes! Broil 2–3 mins on the top rack, watching closely.
2. Why did my cheesecake crack?
- Overbaking → Check at 50 mins.
- Rapid cooling → Let it cool gradually in the oven.
3. Can I use a different crust?
Try vanilla wafer crumbs or shortbread cookies.
4. How do I store leftovers?
- Cover loosely to preserve the crispy top.
- Eaten within 24 hours for best texture.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Use GF graham crackers and ensure cornstarch is GF.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is decadence defined—silky, rich, and crowned with that signature caramelized crunch. Perfect for anniversaries, dinner parties, or when you deserve a next-level treat!
“Two iconic desserts in one unforgettable slice!” 💖
Tag your creations #CremeBruleeCheesecake
