If you are searching for a decadent dessert that marries the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crisp caramelized sugar layer of a classic crème brûlée, these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are going to become your new obsession. Each bite delights with a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky smooth cheesecake center, and a perfectly torched caramel topping that crackles beautifully. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, these bars offer all the charm of the traditional crème brûlée in a convenient, shareable form that’s impossible to resist.

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, each chosen to create the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color. Every component plays a key role—from the crunchy crust to the velvety filling and that iconic brûléed topping.

Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups): Provides the classic buttery crunch for the crust that holds everything together.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup plus ¼ cup plus ½ cup): Sweetens both the crust, cheesecake, and topping; essential for caramelizing the sugar layer.
Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and helps bind the crust ingredients.
Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The creamy, tangy base for the cheesecake that delivers luxurious texture.
Large eggs (2): Helps set the cheesecake and adds a slight richness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Enhances creaminess and creates that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses fragrant warmth and depth into the cheesecake.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Stabilizes the cheesecake to prevent cracking and ensures smoothness.

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for an easy release later on. Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter until every crumb is coated and sticky. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even, compact crust. Pop it into the oven for about 10 minutes to set that golden base, then set it aside while you prepare the cheesecake batter.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with ¾ cup sugar until the mixture is silky smooth and free of lumps. Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain that velvety texture. Blend in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch, beating just until everything is combined and creamy. This careful blending ensures your cheesecake layer will be luxuriously smooth and rich.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious cheesecake batter evenly over the pre-baked crust, gently smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the cheesecake is mostly set but still has a slight jiggle in the center—this prevents overbaking and keeps the texture tender. Let the dessert cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Caramelize the Sugar Topping

Once chilled, sprinkle an even ½ cup layer of granulated sugar over the cheesecake surface. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it becomes a golden, glassy crust that crackles delightfully when tapped. If you don’t have a torch, placing the dessert under a broiler works too—just watch it closely to avoid burning. This topping is what brings the iconic crème brûlée flavor and texture to your cheesecake bars.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Allow the brûléed topping to harden fully, then carefully cut the cheesecake into 12 generous bars. For the best presentation, wipe your knife with warm water between each cut to keep those clean edges. Serve these stunning Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars as a show-stopping dessert that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them.

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

A simple fresh garnish can elevate the experience of these bars. Try a few fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a tangy contrast, or sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar around the plate for a delicate touch. A tiny dollop of whipped cream or a few mint leaves also complement the caramelized sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

While these cheesecake bars can easily stand alone as a decadent treat, pairing them with a cup of strong espresso or a fragrant black tea balances their richness beautifully. For a more indulgent pairing, a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can transform your serving into a luscious dessert plate that’s pure comfort in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try individual servings by cutting the bars into smaller squares and placing them on decorative dessert spoons or mini plates. Drizzle a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce around the plates for extra flair. You could even serve them with edible flowers or gold leaf to truly wow your guests with your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days to maintain freshness and texture. Keep the caramelized topping intact by covering loosely with plastic wrap or parchment paper to avoid moisture compromising the crisp sugar layer.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bars in advance, you can freeze them before caramelizing the sugar topping. Wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and caramelize the topping just before serving for that perfect crackly finish.

Reheating

Because of the delicate caramelized crust, reheating Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars is best avoided to preserve the crisp texture. If you must warm them slightly, place bars in a cool oven (around 250°F / 120°C) for just a few minutes, but be mindful not to melt the caramel topping or the cheesecake texture may suffer.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust for these bars?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is traditional and adds lovely flavor, you could swap it for crushed digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even a nut-based crust to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No worries. The broiler setting on your oven works as a great alternative. Just be sure to watch the sugar closely as it caramelizes to prevent burning—it can happen very quickly!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so these bars can easily fit into a gluten-free diet.

How do I get a smooth, crack-free cheesecake layer?

Beating the cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth before adding eggs and other ingredients helps tremendously, as does not overbaking. The cornstarch also helps stabilize the batter to avoid cracks.

Is there a way to add extra flavor to these bars?

Definitely! Try stirring in a bit of vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for more intense flavor, or add a splash of bourbon or amaretto to the batter for an adult twist on your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars combine two beloved desserts into one luscious experience. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or just because you deserve a slice of indulgence, these bars offer a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and caramelized goodness. I can’t wait for you to try them and share in the joy of this delightful treat!