Decadent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake: A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
2 pounds cream cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
5 large eggs
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 cup sour cream
1 cup superfine sugar, for the brulee topping

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and the flour, beating until well combined.
Add the eggs and egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Beat in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan.
Bake for 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set and the top is lightly browned. Let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
While the cheesecake is still warm, spread the sour cream evenly over the top. Let the cheesecake cool completely on the wire rack, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Just before serving, sprinkle the superfine sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, melt the sugar until it caramelizes. If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecake under a preheated broiler until the sugar melts and caramelizes. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
Let the caramelized sugar harden for a few minutes before slicing and serving the cheesecake.

Tools for making

9-inch springform pan - A round, non-stick baking pan with removable sides, used for easy removal of the cheesecake.
Medium bowl - A bowl of moderate size used for mixing the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Large bowl - A bowl of larger size used for beating the cream cheese and other ingredients.
Wire rack - A metal rack used for cooling the cheesecake after baking.
Kitchen torch - A handheld device used to melt and caramelize the sugar topping.
Spatula - A flat utensil with a broad, flexible blade used for spreading the cream cheese mixture and sour cream.
Measuring cups and spoons - Utensils used for accurately measuring ingredients in cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons.
Mixing utensil - A spoon or whisk used for mixing the ingredients together.
Oven - A kitchen appliance used for baking the cheesecake at the specified temperature.

Recipe variations

Use a chocolate cookie or Oreo crust instead of graham cracker crust.
Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Add in a layer of fruit compote (such as raspberry or strawberry) between the crust and cream cheese filling.
Mix in some chocolate chips or chunks into the cream cheese filling for a chocolate twist.
Top the cheesecake with a berry glaze or caramel sauce instead of the traditional brulee topping.
Add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, such as Bailey's Irish Cream or Grand Marnier, to the cream cheese filling for a boozy flavor.
Make it a savory version by omitting the sugar and adding herbs, spices, and savory ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or bacon to the cream cheese filling.
Create a vegan version by using dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Use a vegan-friendly sweetener and omit the eggs.

Recipe overview

This decadent Creme Brulee Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the elegant sweetness of creme brulee. With its graham cracker crust and caramelized sugar topping, this dessert is sure to impress. The process involves baking a creamy, lemon-infused cheesecake, topping it with sour cream for a tangy contrast, and finishing it off with a hard caramel topping created by melting superfine sugar. The result is a stunning and indulgent dessert that's a true showstopper. With a little patience and attention to detail, even a beginner baker can create this gourmet treat at home. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of crust? Yes, you can use a different type of crust if you prefer. However, graham cracker crumbs provide a classic and delicious base for this cheesecake.
Can I use a different flavor extract? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for vanilla extract, you can experiment with different flavors such as almond extract or even citrus extracts like orange or lime.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the cheesecake. However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the final result.
Can I make this cheesecake in advance? Yes, this cheesecake can be made in advance. After refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight, it will be ready to serve. The caramelized sugar topping can also be done just before serving.
Can I freeze this cheesecake? Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - You will need various sizes of mixing bowls to prepare the cheesecake batter and mix ingredients.
Electric mixer - An electric mixer is recommended for beating the cream cheese and other ingredients together until smooth.
9-inch springform pan - This type of pan with a removable bottom is ideal for baking the cheesecake and easily releasing it without damaging the crust.
Wire rack - A wire rack is useful for allowing the cheesecake to cool evenly after baking.
Kitchen torch - If you have a kitchen torch, it's perfect for caramelizing the sugar topping. Alternatively, you can use a preheated broiler.
Measuring cups and spoons - Accurate measurements are important for this recipe, so having a set of measuring cups and spoons is essential.
Spatula - A spatula will help you scrape the cream cheese batter out of the mixing bowl and spread it evenly over the crust.
Zester or grater - You will need a zester or grater to obtain the lemon zest required for the recipe.
Oven mitts - To handle the hot springform pan and protect your hands from burns, oven mitts are necessary.
Serving knife or spatula - A sharp knife or spatula will make it easier to slice and serve the cheesecake.

Origin stories

Creme Brulee Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: the classic French Creme Brulee and the American-style Cheesecake. The origins of this hybrid dessert are a bit unclear, but each component has a rich history of its own. Creme Brulee, characterized by its creamy custard base and caramelized sugar top, dates back to 17th century France. It was first referenced in Francois Massialot's cookbook in 1691. On the other hand, Cheesecake has a history that dates back even further, with its earliest forms appearing in ancient Greece and later perfected by the Romans. Merging these two iconic desserts into one, the Creme Brulee Cheesecake has become a popular treat in many parts of the world, loved for its creamy texture and sweet, caramelized topping. This delightful blend of old-world traditions and modern dessert innovation results in a dish that offers a simultaneous nod to culinary history and the ever-evolving world of sweet indulgences.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.