Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Indulge in these luxurious Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with a perfectly caramelized sugar topping. They’re an elegant and delightful treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press and Bake: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition.
4. Mix in Creams: Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour and Smooth: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Bake and Cool

1. Bake Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake bars for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
2. Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
3. Refrigerate: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Add the Caramelized Sugar Topping

1. Prepare for Caramelizing: Once the cheesecake bars are completely chilled, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top.
2. Caramelize Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a torch, place the pan under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake bars into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours (including cooling)

Variations

1. Flavor Additions: Add a swirl of fruit puree (like raspberry or strawberry) into the cheesecake filling for a fruity twist.
2. Crust Options: Use crushed chocolate cookies or nuts instead of graham crackers for a different crust flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed cold, but if needed, gently reheat in the oven or microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Cream cheese is best for this recipe, but you can experiment with mascarpone for a richer flavor.
2. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?
   Use the broiler method carefully, watching the sugar closely to prevent burning.
3. Can I make these bars in advance?
   Yes, they can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
   Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Add the caramelized topping just before serving.
5. How can I make the bars more chocolatey?
   Add chocolate chips to the filling or use a chocolate graham cracker crust.
6. Can I use light cream cheese?
   Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
7. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramelizing sugar?
   Store-bought caramel sauce can be drizzled on top, but it won’t provide the same crisp caramelized texture.
8. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
   Bake at a lower temperature and avoid overmixing the filling. Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven.
9. Can I use different flavors of extract?
   Yes, try almond or lemon extract for different flavor profiles.
10. How do I get even slices?
    Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Conclusion

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with a crisp caramelized sugar topping for a truly indulgent dessert. Perfect for special occasions or a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress with their elegant flavor and presentation!

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