Description

Indulge in a decadent fusion of two classic desserts—cheesecake and crème brûlée. These creamy, individual-sized treats feature a vanilla cheesecake filling, a graham cracker crust, and a crisp caramelized sugar topping, perfect for any special occasion or indulgent craving.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping:

2–4 tablespoons granulated sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined muffin tin, ensuring even layers.
- Bake the crust for 5-7 minutes and let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

- Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crusts, filling nearly to the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecakes:

- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the tops are set but still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecakes cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping:

- Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each chilled cheesecake.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, place the cheesecakes under the broiler for a few seconds, watching carefully.
- Allow the sugar to cool and harden before serving.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Store cheesecakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month without the sugar topping. Add the topping just before serving.
Garnish with fresh berries, edible flowers, or mint for an elegant presentation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-American Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
Calories: 260
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg