Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Creamy, fluffy baked cheesecake, buttery biscuit crust, and a crispy caramelized crème brûlée top that cracks when sliced make this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake the ultimate dessert. Perfect for gatherings or an elegant dinner party, this cheesecake stands out with its unique flavors and impressive presentation that will leave your guests in awe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy caramelized top creates a delightful contrast of textures.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up this impressive dessert without any stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this dessert fits every celebration.
• Versatile Flavor Base: Customize it by adding fruit toppings or flavored extracts to suit your taste preference.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, having the right tools is essential. These tools not only make the cooking process smoother but also ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Baking tray

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
• Electric mixer: Ensures that all ingredients are mixed thoroughly and achieve a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 170 g digestive biscuits
• 100 g butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 900 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 200 g caster sugar
• 160 g sour cream
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 4 large eggs, room temperature (lightly beaten)

For the Topping:

• 50 g granulated sugar

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin.
3. In a bowl, mix the biscuit crumbs with melted butter until combined.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes and then remove from the oven to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and caster sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add in sour cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; mix until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add in lightly beaten eggs, mixing on low speed just until combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
2. Place the pan in a larger baking tray filled with hot water (this helps create steam during baking).
3. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 4: Cool and Caramelize

1. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour with the door ajar.
2. Remove from oven and let it cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Just before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
4. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy layer—allow it to cool briefly before slicing into pieces.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful homemade Crème Brûlée Cheesecake!

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Serving your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delectable dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top the cheesecake with a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a vibrant contrast and added flavor.

Drizzled with Fruit Sauce

• Enhance the cheesecake by drizzling it with a homemade fruit sauce, such as raspberry or mango, which adds sweetness and acidity.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice provides a creamy texture that complements the rich cheesecake perfectly.

Chocolate Shavings

• Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy topping.

Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle can add extra richness and a sweet finish to each serving of your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake.

How to Perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

To achieve the perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, consider these key tips for a flawless result.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, preventing lumps.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake during baking.

• Water bath baking: Use a water bath while baking to maintain a consistent temperature and keep your cheesecake moist.

• Chill thoroughly: Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating overnight helps set its structure and enhances flavors.

• Brûlée just before serving: For the best texture, caramelize the sugar on top right before serving so it stays crispy and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Pairing side dishes with your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad with oranges and grapefruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.

2. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti pairs well for dipping into coffee or tea alongside your sweet dessert, creating a delightful combination.

3. Chocolate Mousse: This light, airy dessert complements the dense texture of cheesecake while providing an indulgent chocolate flavor.

4. Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of fruit sorbet adds a refreshing contrast and cleanses the palate after enjoying rich cheesecake slices.

5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory option that balances out the sweetness of the dessert.

6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage pairing that enhances the overall experience of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy texture. Always ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can incorporate too much air, causing cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for a smooth consistency.
• Not using a water bath: A water bath helps maintain moisture and even cooking. Wrap your cheesecake pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly. Allow it to cool in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Burning the top layer: When caramelizing sugar, work quickly and evenly with your torch or broiler to achieve that perfect crackly crust without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Crème Brûlée Cheesecake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

• You can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds; check and repeat if necessary.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crème Brûlée Cheesecake.

What makes Crème Brûlée Cheesecake different from regular cheesecake?

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, offering a delightful contrast between creamy and crunchy.

Can I customize my Crème Brûlée Cheesecake?

Yes! You can add flavors like chocolate or fruit puree into the batter or top it with fresh berries after caramelizing the sugar for added flavor.

How do I achieve the perfect caramelized top?

Use granulated sugar evenly spread over the cooled cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch or broiler carefully to melt and caramelize the sugar without burning it.

Can I use alternatives to cream cheese?

For a lighter option, you could experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese, but this may change the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy filling paired with a crispy caramelized topping makes it an exquisite dessert choice. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings!

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Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the luxurious experience of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and a crispy caramelized sugar topping. This dessert boasts an irresistible blend of textures—each slice offers a smooth, rich filling paired with a satisfying crunch that shatters under your fork. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this cheesecake is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to any dessert table. With minimal preparation and straightforward steps, impress your guests with this elegant treat that’s sure to be the star of the show.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 170 g digestive biscuits
• 100 g melted butter
• 900 g cream cheese (softened)
• 200 g caster sugar
• 160 g sour cream
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs (lightly beaten)
• 50 g granulated sugar (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Crush digestive biscuits and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese and caster sugar until smooth. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, salt, and gently fold in beaten eggs until just combined.
3. Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake in a water bath for about 60 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center.
4. Cool in oven with door ajar for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar on top and caramelize using a kitchen torch.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 95mg