Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

Name: Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

Delight in the luxurious combination of creamy cheesecake and a delicate crème brûlée topping with these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes. These individual desserts feature a buttery graham cracker crust, rich, velvety filling, and a perfectly caramelized sugar layer that adds an elegant touch to any occasion. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a sweet treat at home, they're a delightful twist on a classic favorite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-25T11:33:20.037Z

These Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are not just desserts; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes strike a perfect balance between the rich creaminess of cheesecake and the delicate sweetness of caramelized sugar. The tanginess from the cream cheese plays beautifully with the sugary topping, creating a multifaceted flavor experience in each bite. This delightful contrast not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds, making these mini desserts a go-to choice for any gathering.

The addition of sour cream in the filling adds an unexpected layer of flavor that enhances the overall richness without being overwhelmingly sweet. This thoughtful combination ensures that every mini cheesecake is not just a dessert, but an extraordinary treat that both cheesecake lovers and crème brûlée fans will adore.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a formal dinner party, a casual gathering with friends, or simply indulging yourself at home, Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the perfect dessert choice. Their individual servings not only make them easy to serve but also add a touch of sophistication to your dessert table. Imagine delighting your guests with these elegant, bite-sized treats that stand out in both taste and presentation.

Additionally, these cheesecakes can be prepared ahead of time, giving you more freedom to enjoy your company without the stress of last-minute baking. Just remember to brulee the tops right before serving to achieve that signature crunchy finish, ensuring that every bite is fresh and delicious.

Customizable and Creative

One of the great things about Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding other flavors, such as citrus zests, chocolate, or even a swirl of your favorite fruit puree. Each variation brings a unique twist to the traditional recipe, allowing you to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Moreover, consider experimenting with your crust. While graham cracker crumbs are classic, you can try using crushed cookies, nuts, or even a layer of chocolate for added depth. This creativity not only keeps the dessert exciting but also allows you to make personalized treats that reflect your culinary style.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream

For the brûlée topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a muffin tin to form your crust.

Make the filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Finally, stir in sour cream until smooth.

Bake

Pour the filling into the prepared crusts in the muffin tin. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature.

Chill

Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Brûlée the tops

Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful desserts!

Expert Tips for Success

When making Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, it’s vital to ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing. This helps to achieve a smooth and lump-free filling. To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes—this will significantly speed up the process.

Another essential tip is to keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling, while underbaking may result in a runny texture. To strike the right balance, it's best to monitor the cheesecakes closely towards the end of the baking time.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are best served chilled, which enhances their creamy texture and helps the caramelized sugar maintain its crunch. For presentation, you can garnish each cheesecake with a fresh berry or a sprig of mint, adding not only color but also a refreshing flavor contrast.

If you have leftovers, store the cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s recommended to brûlée the tops just before serving to maintain their crispness. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider making the cheesecakes and refrigerating them, letting the brûlée topping be the finale to the dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cheesecakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheesecakes a day ahead and brûlée them just before serving.

→ What if I don't have a kitchen torch?

You can broil them in the oven for a few seconds, but watch closely to prevent burning.