Intro If you love desserts that are both creamy and crispy, these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are your dream come true! Blending the lusciousness of a classic cheesecake with the iconic caramelized sugar crust of a crème brûlée, this treat offers elegance and indulgence in every bite. They’re easy to make, perfectly portioned, and guaranteed to impress—whether it’s for a dinner party or a quiet evening at home.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecakes
- Creamy, smooth cheesecake base
- Crunchy, golden brûlée sugar topping
- Simple ingredients with gourmet results
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Individual servings make them perfect for entertaining
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Brûlée Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.
- Make the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press firmly into the bottom of each liner.
- Bake for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in vanilla and heavy cream until smooth.
- Fill & Bake:
- Divide the cheesecake filling among the liners, about ¾ full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, until just set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Caramelize the Tops:
- Once chilled, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar on each cheesecake.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients blend better for a silky texture.
- Don’t overbake. A slight jiggle in the center is perfect.
- No kitchen torch? Use the broiler briefly, but keep a close eye!
Serving Suggestions
- Top with fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side of espresso or cappuccino.
- Garnish with mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze (without topping): Wrap individually and store up to 1 month. Add the brûlée topping after thawing.
FAQs
Can I make them ahead? Yes! Make them up to 2 days in advance. Add the sugar topping just before serving.
Do I need a torch? It’s preferred for best results, but the broiler can work in a pinch.
Can I use different crusts? Definitely! Try chocolate wafers or gluten-free graham crackers for a twist.
Final Thoughts Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. With their rich texture, creamy flavor, and crisp topping, they offer a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable. Go ahead—treat yourself and your guests to this little slice of heaven!