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Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Recipe

4.8 from 8 reviews

Indulge in these luscious Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, and a perfectly caramelized sugar topping that crackles with every bite. Easy to prepare and chilled to perfection, these bars combine the best of classic cheesecake and crème brûlée dessert into one elegant treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, forming an even crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Blend in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch, mixing until the batter is silky and well combined.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours to set properly.
  4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Once chilled, evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar over the surface of the cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and forms a hard, glassy crust. Alternatively, place the cheesecake under a broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  5. Slice and Serve: Allow the caramelized sugar topping to harden completely. Use a warm knife, wiping it clean between cuts, to slice the cheesecake into 12 bars. Serve immediately and enjoy the contrasting textures and rich flavors.

Notes

  • Wipe your knife with warm water between slices for clean, neat cuts.
  • For extra depth of flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste or a splash of bourbon to the cheesecake batter.
  • Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
  • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, broiling the sugar topping works as an effective alternative, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, Cheesecake Bars, Crème Brûlée Dessert, Graham Cracker Crust, Caramelized Sugar Topping, Easy Cheesecake Recipe, No-Bake Crust, Party Dessert