Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars – Creamy & Caramelized Treat

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Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a rich, creamy dessert with a caramelized top. Try this easy recipe for a decadent and elegant sweet treat!

If you’re a fan of classic crème brûlée and rich cheesecake, then these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for you! This recipe combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky vanilla bean cheesecake filling, and a crispy caramelized sugar topping to create a dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a special treat for yourself!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

  • Easy to Make: No need for a water bath like traditional cheesecakes!
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: The rich, creamy filling pairs beautifully with the crunchy brûléed topping.
  • Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together, these bars are a guaranteed hit.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and brûlée the sugar just before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

  • 9 whole (135g) graham crackers, finely crushed
  • 5 tablespoons (72g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 ounces (454g) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or substitute with vanilla extract)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Brûlée Topping:

  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square metal baking dish with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until they become fine crumbs.
  3. Add the melted butter and pulse until the mixture is moistened.
  4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly browned and set.
  6. Remove from the oven and let it cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
  2. Add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually mix in the heavy cream, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla bean paste, and salt until smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
  4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
  5. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  6. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

Step 3: Brûlée the Topping

  1. Once chilled, use the foil overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan and place it on a heat-safe surface.
  2. Cut into 9 equal squares.
  3. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of each square.
  4. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crispy. (Alternative method: Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.)
  5. Let the sugar harden for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
  • Don’t Overbake: The center should be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven to prevent dryness.
  • Torch the Sugar Just Before Serving: This keeps the topping crisp and prevents it from softening in the fridge.
  • Try a Different Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed Biscoff cookies or Oreos for a fun twist.
  • Use High-Quality Vanilla: Vanilla bean paste adds an authentic flavor, but pure vanilla extract works well too.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries complements the creamy richness.
  • Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: For an extra layer of decadence.
  • Enjoy with Coffee or Espresso: The slightly bitter notes balance the sweetness perfectly.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! The cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Brûlée the sugar just before serving.

2. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Absolutely! Freeze the bars (before adding the brûlée topping) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before torching the sugar.

3. What can I use instead of a kitchen torch?

If you don’t have a torch, use the broiler method by placing the bars under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning!

4. Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes! Substitute 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract if you don’t have vanilla bean paste.

5. Why is my cheesecake cracking?

Cracks can occur from overmixing the batter or baking too long. To prevent this, mix ingredients just until combined and remove the cheesecake from the oven while it’s still slightly jiggly.

These Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a delicious fusion of two beloved desserts, making them an absolute must-try! Easy to make, rich in flavor, and topped with a perfect caramelized crunch, they are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and let me know how you liked it in the comments!

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