Description
These Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the decadent caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée. They offer a delightful contrast of textures, with a smooth and velvety filling topped by a crunchy, caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
- 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:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Add the Caramelized Sugar Topping:
- Once the cheesecake bars are completely chilled, evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar over the top.
- 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:
- Slice the cheesecake bars into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cheesecake bars are well chilled before adding the caramelized sugar topping. For a perfect caramel crust, use a kitchen torch for the best results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes