Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars 🍮

Introduction

When I first stumbled upon the idea of crème brûlée cheesecake bars, I knew I had to try them. As a dessert lover, I’ve always appreciated the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake, but adding the classic brûlée topping? That’s a game changer. The first time I served these bars at a family gathering, the reaction was priceless. The combination of creamy cheesecake and the satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar had everyone raving. My family devoured them within minutes, and I was left with a few crumbs as proof of their deliciousness. It’s safe to say that these crème brûlée cheesecake bars have earned a permanent spot in my dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

• 7 oz (200g) Graham crackers
• 6 tablespoons (90g) melted butter
• 2/3 cup (160g) sour cream
• 2 1/2 cups (560g) room temperature cream cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy whipping cream
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 6-8 teaspoons sugar for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor, or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbs with the melted butter until well mixed. Firmly press the mixture into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch square baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, and continue beating until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one by one, mixing just until each is blended in.
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the center is nearly set. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to fully set.
5. Cut and Prepare for Brûlée: Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan. If desired, trim the edges for a cleaner look and cut into bars.
6. Caramelize the Topping: Before serving, sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of sugar on top of each bar. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden layer. Let the bars sit for about 5 minutes to allow the caramel to set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 320

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the cheesecake bars chilled for the best texture.
• Garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.
• Offer a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on the side.
• Use a clean, sharp knife for cutting to maintain clean edges.
• Present on a decorative platter for a beautiful display.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling and easier mixing.
2. Even Baking: Bake the cheesecake in the center of the oven to ensure even cooking.
3. Cooling Time: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent cracking.
4. Caramelizing Sugar: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the sugar-topped bars under the broiler for a few seconds, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
5. Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Recipe Variations

• Flavor Infusion: Add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a citrus twist.
• Chocolate Version: Fold in melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the cheesecake mixture for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Nut Crust: Substitute half of the graham cracker crumbs with finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Topping: Top with a layer of fresh fruit or a fruit compote instead of caramelized sugar for a fresh alternative.
• Spiced Cheesecake: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a seasonal flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coffee or espresso for a delightful dessert experience.
• Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.
• Use as a centerpiece for dessert tables at gatherings or celebrations.
• Incorporate into a dessert charcuterie board with other sweet treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These cheesecake bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• Thawing: To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving to prevent the texture from becoming grainy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

• Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture and creaminess of the cheesecake.

1. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

• You can use a broiler to caramelize the sugar, just be sure to watch closely.

1. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

• The edges should be set, while the center may still have a slight jiggle.

1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

• Absolutely! Cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers can be used for a different flavor.

1. How long do these bars keep in the fridge?

• They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative cookie for the crust.

1. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

• Use a hot, clean knife for the best results. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting.

1. Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?

• Yes, chilling helps the cheesecake set and improves the flavor.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Definitely! These bars are great to make a day or two in advance.

1. What can I do with leftovers?
   • They can be enjoyed as is, or crumbled over ice cream for a delicious topping!

Conclusion

Crème brûlée cheesecake bars are a delightful combination of two beloved desserts, delivering the best of both worlds in each bite. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and crispy caramel topping, they’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a sweet treat after dinner, these bars are a must-have in your dessert repertoire. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every luscious bite!

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