Description
Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes combine the indulgent richness of creamy cheesecake with the classic crunch of caramelized sugar topping. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat, these bite-sized delights are made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, velvety filling. Top them with golden, crisp caramel for the ultimate dessert experience. Easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests!
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Base:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelized topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press a spoonful of the mixture into each muffin cup, pressing firmly to form an even crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream, beating until just combined.
- Bake the Cheesecakes: Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the centers are set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill.
- Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sugar over each cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and bubbly. Allow the sugar to cool and harden before serving.
Notes
Make sure the cheesecakes are completely chilled before caramelizing the sugar topping.
You can make the cheesecakes a day ahead, and just caramelize the sugar right before serving.
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, use the oven broiler for the caramelizing step. Watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
Store leftover cheesecakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, without the caramelized sugar topping, to preserve the crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Mini Desserts, Cheesecake
- Method: Baking, No-Bake (for chilling)
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Calories: 180 kcal
