This indulgent creme brulee cheesecake brings together two classic desserts in one irresistible creation! With a smooth and creamy cheesecake base and a rich, caramelized sugar topping that gives it the perfect crunch, it’s an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dessert will definitely leave everyone asking for more!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for topping)
- 1 tbsp water (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- For the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- For the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tbsp of water and add to the cheesecake mixture. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Bake at 325°F for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for an hour. Then, chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the topping: Combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a simmer, and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake.
- Once the topping is set, serve chilled, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling) Kcal: 350 Servings: 12
Origin of Creme Brulee Cheesecake
The Creme Brulee Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: the rich, creamy cheesecake and the delicate, caramelized sugar topping of a traditional creme brulee. This recipe takes the classic flavors of creme brulee, with its velvety custard base and crispy sugar crust, and combines them with the rich, smooth texture of a cheesecake, creating an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any special occasion.
Creme brulee, which translates to “burnt cream” in French, has been a favorite dessert for centuries. The classic version is made by baking a custard base and then caramelizing sugar on top with a torch or under a broiler. The idea of combining this topping with a cheesecake came from the desire to marry the flavors and textures of both desserts into one.
The Perfect Texture
One of the standout features of this cheesecake is its smooth, velvety filling. The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a decadent texture that melts in your mouth, while the cornstarch ensures that the cheesecake has the perfect consistency, preventing it from being too dense. The baked graham cracker crust provides a slight crunch, which complements the creamy filling.
The caramelized sugar topping is what truly elevates this cheesecake. It’s achieved by melting brown sugar with a touch of cream, creating a soft, sweet glaze that mimics the traditional creme brulee topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavors: The combination of cheesecake and creme brulee offers a complex, yet balanced flavor profile. It’s rich but not overly sweet, with the caramelized topping giving it a slight bitterness that cuts through the richness of the filling.
- Elegant Presentation: The creme brulee topping gives this cheesecake a sophisticated look, making it perfect for dinner parties or special gatherings. The golden, glossy finish is sure to impress your guests.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Like most cheesecakes, this recipe is best when prepared ahead of time, as the flavors have time to meld together. It’s a great option for preparing in advance for celebrations or holidays.
Serving Suggestions
- For a Classic Touch: Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry coulis on the side for a pop of color and flavor.
- For Extra Indulgence: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- For an Extra Crunch: Garnish with crushed pistachios or almonds for a bit of texture contrast.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking the cheesecake can cause it to crack or become dry. Be sure to keep an eye on the cheesecake during the last few minutes of baking to ensure the center is just set.
- Chill Properly: Allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar is a great way to avoid cracks. After it’s cooled down, chilling the cheesecake for several hours or overnight will help it set properly and allow the flavors to develop.
- Use a Springform Pan: A springform pan allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging the delicate crust or filling.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the first recorded recipe for creme brulee dates back to the 1691 cookbook “Le Cuisinier Royal et Bourgeois” by François Massialot? However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the modern version of creme brulee became popular, thanks to the rise of French cuisine in fine dining establishments.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a special dessert to enjoy with loved ones, the Creme Brulee Cheesecake is the perfect choice. Its elegant appearance and balanced flavors make it a standout dish, while the combination of two classic desserts ensures it will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Perfect for Special Occasions
The Creme Brulee Cheesecake is an ideal dessert for a variety of celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, celebrating a birthday, or impressing guests at a dinner party, this cheesecake stands out as a showstopper. Its beautiful caramelized top adds a touch of elegance, while its creamy texture makes it irresistible.
Tips for Making the Best Creme Brulee Cheesecake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened: This ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling. Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before you begin preparing the recipe.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: After baking, it’s essential to let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This prevents the cheesecake from cracking by allowing it to cool gradually. Then, chill it in the fridge for at least four hours (overnight is even better) to let the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly.
- Use a springform pan: For the best presentation and ease of removal, use a springform pan. This will ensure that the cheesecake stays intact when you serve it and will allow for easy removal of the outer ring after chilling.
- Caramelizing the sugar topping: For the signature creme brulee finish, it’s important to get the sugar just right. When making the topping, avoid using too much liquid; you want it to be thick enough to set into a shiny, smooth glaze. You can even use a kitchen torch for a more authentic look, or simply use your oven’s broiler to achieve that golden, crispy top.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Versatile: While this cheesecake is rich and indulgent, it’s not overly heavy. The subtle flavors of vanilla and caramel make it a dessert that appeals to a wide range of palates. It’s also versatile in terms of flavor variations. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite fruits (like fresh berries) or chocolate drizzles on top to create your own twist on the classic.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Although this cheesecake might seem intimidating at first glance, it’s actually quite simple to make. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, which makes it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Storage Tips
- How to Store: If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store your Creme Brulee Cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This cheesecake can also be frozen if you need to make it ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and then add the caramelized topping just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake is rich and flavorful on its own, but it can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance the experience:
- Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of freshness that contrasts the richness of the cheesecake.
- Whipped cream: Lighten the dessert with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, either plain or lightly sweetened.
- Coffee or dessert wine: A cup of rich espresso or a glass of dessert wine, like a Moscato or Port, pairs beautifully with the creamy texture and caramel flavor of this cheesecake.
The Perfect Ending to Any Meal
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious dessert at home, Creme Brulee Cheesecake will leave your guests talking. With its smooth, creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and decadent caramelized topping, this dessert combines all the best elements of classic French and American sweets. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser, and once you serve it, you’ll be asked for the recipe again and again!
Conclusion
The Creme Brulee Cheesecake is a delicious blend of two classic desserts, offering a creamy cheesecake base topped with a caramelized sugar crust. Its rich texture, balanced sweetness, and elegant presentation make it perfect for any special occasion or as an indulgent treat.
This recipe is easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its sophisticated flavors and stunning finish. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a showstopping dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite!