Name: Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

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Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the perfect dessert for those who love the combination of creamy cheesecake and the irresistible crispiness of caramelized sugar. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also make for an elegant addition to any gathering or celebration. The best part? Each cheesecake has its own individual serving size, making them easy to serve at parties or for a special treat at home.

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

¼ cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well-coated.

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each muffin cup and gently press down to form a crust. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.

Spoon the cheesecake mixture into the muffin cups, filling them about ¾ of the way full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Caramelize the topping: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar on top of each cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and crispy.

Serve immediately and enjoy these decadent mini cheesecakes!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (includes chilling time)

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), these mini cheesecakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I recommend caramelizing the sugar right before serving, as the crispiness of the topping is what makes them truly special. Reheating is not recommended, as the caramelized sugar will lose its crunch.

FAQs

Can I make these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the cheesecakes a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just be sure to caramelize the sugar topping just before serving to maintain its crispiness.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is classic, you can swap it out with crushed cookies (like digestive biscuits or Oreos) for a unique twist on the base.

How do I caramelize the sugar topping without a kitchen torch?

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecakes under the broiler for a few minutes. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning the sugar.

Can I freeze these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes?

You can freeze the cheesecakes before adding the caramelized topping. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator and caramelize the sugar topping just before serving.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese or other substitutes?

For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using full-fat cream cheese. However, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute if needed, but the cheesecakes may not be as rich and creamy.

Conclusion

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the crispy caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just looking for a sweet treat, these mini cheesecakes are sure to impress. The individual serving size makes them perfect for parties, and their delicious flavor will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Recipe:

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes combine the creamy texture of cheesecake with a crisp caramelized sugar topping for a delightful and elegant dessert. Perfect for parties and special occasions.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well-coated.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each muffin cup and gently press down to form a crust. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
Spoon the cheesecake mixture into the muffin cups, filling them about ¾ of the way full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Caramelize the topping: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar on top of each cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and crispy.
Serve immediately and enjoy these decadent mini cheesecakes!

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but do not caramelize the sugar until right before serving.

These cheesecakes can be made ahead of time. Just make sure to caramelize the sugar topping before serving to preserve its crispiness.

For an alternative crust, try crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits.

If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can use a broiler to caramelize the sugar, but keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Freezing is possible before adding the caramelized topping. Thaw in the fridge before serving and caramelize the sugar just before serving.