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Decadent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Delight in the creamy richness of classic cheesecake topped with a crispy, caramelized brûlée crust. This elegant yet easy dessert is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat to brighten any day.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Cracker Crust
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs can use honey or cinnamon graham crackers for flavor
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar for the crust
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted, to bind the crust
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 24 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar for the filling
  • 4 large eggs added one at a time
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Brûlée Topping
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing on top

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Mixing spoon or electric mixer
  • Baking dish or roasting pan
  • Kitchen torch (optional)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake crust for 10 minutes and let cool.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until fully combined.
  4. Step 4: Pour filling over cooled crust. Place springform pan inside a larger baking dish and pour hot water around it halfway up the sides (water bath).
  5. Step 5: Bake for 55-65 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door slightly open for 1 hour.
  6. Step 6: Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.
  7. Step 7: Just before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden and crisp, or place under broiler for 1-3 minutes, watching carefully.
  8. Step 8: Allow caramelized sugar to cool and harden for a few minutes. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts and serve immediately.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks. Water bath and slow cooling are key to creamy texture. Store covered in fridge up to 5 days or freeze without brûlée topping for 2 months. Caramelize sugar topping just before serving for best texture. Try crust swaps or flavored fillings for variations.