Crème Brûlée Cheesecake: Two Classics, One Unforgettable Dessert

Imagine the rich, velvety texture of New York-style cheesecake topped with the shattering caramelized sugar crust of a classic crème brûlée. That’s exactly what you get with Crème Brûlée Cheesecake—an indulgent dessert mashup that combines the best of two iconic favorites.

This show-stopping treat features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla bean cheesecake filling, and a crisp brûléed sugar topping. Elegant yet approachable, this dessert is ideal for dinner parties, holiday celebrations, or anytime you want to impress without complexity.

 Ingredients & Their Roles

Each element of this Crème Brûlée Cheesecake recipe has a purpose in delivering smooth texture, balanced flavor, and that signature brûlée finish.

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups) – The classic cheesecake base; adds sweetness and crunch.

• Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – Slightly sweetens the crust and helps it bind.

• Unsalted Butter (6 tbsp, melted) – Binds the crumbs and creates a firm crust once baked.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese (24 oz, softened) – The star ingredient, delivering the creamy, rich texture.

• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering.

• Sour Cream (½ cup) – Adds tang and helps smooth the filling.

• Eggs (3 large) – Provide structure and richness to the cheesecake.

• Vanilla Bean Paste (1 tbsp) – Adds deep vanilla flavor and beautiful specks; substitute with pure vanilla extract if needed.

• Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.

For the Brûlée Topping:

• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sprinkled and torched to create the caramelized top layer.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup.

4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free (about 2–3 minutes).

2. Add the sugar and beat again until well combined.

3. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and salt until just incorporated.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low and scraping down the sides after each addition. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the batter into the cooled crust.

2. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the outer pan (about halfway up the sides) to create a water bath.

3. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.

4. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

5. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Brûlée the Top

1. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate.

2. Pat the top gently with a paper towel to remove any moisture.

3. Sprinkle ¼ cup of granulated sugar evenly over the surface.

4. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden and glassy. Let sit for 1–2 minutes to harden.

 Why This Recipe Works

• Vanilla bean paste offers a luxe, restaurant-quality flavor and visual appeal.

• The water bath ensures a silky-smooth texture without cracks.

• The brûlée topping adds drama and contrast—crackly sugar vs. creamy filling.

Pro Tips for Cheesecake Success

• Room-temperature ingredients = smoother batter and better bake.

• Avoid overmixing to prevent incorporating too much air (which causes cracks).

• Don’t skip the water bath: It’s the key to a luscious, dense cheesecake.

• No kitchen torch? Use your oven’s broiler on high—but watch closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled, straight from the fridge with a sharp knife warmed in hot water for clean slices.

• Garnish with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of espresso syrup for a gourmet finish.

• Pair with coffee, prosecco, or a vanilla latte for the perfect end to any meal.

 Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Dessert

This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is more than a dessert—it’s a statement piece. It’s the kind of dessert that makes guests pause after their first bite and ask for the recipe. By combining two beloved desserts into one flawless creation, it delivers everything you want: creamy, crispy, sweet, and deeply satisfying.

And with simple ingredients and step-by-step guidance, it’s completely achievable—even for baking beginners. Bookmark this recipe, and you’ll have a go-to for every celebration, special occasion, or indulgent weekend treat.