Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe

These Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a showstopper that combines the best elements of two beloved desserts. The creamy, tangy cheesecake filling is perfectly balanced by the crisp, caramelized sugar topping that is traditionally found on crème brûlée. Each bite delivers a rich, velvety texture with a delightful crunch, making them irresistible. They’re also portioned perfectly for individual servings, so guests can enjoy their own little slice of dessert heaven. Plus, the mini format means they’re easy to serve and a great way to indulge without having to share!

Ingredients

• For the crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

  • 3 tbsp sugar

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the cheesecake filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

• For the topping:

  • 1/4 cup sugar (for caramelizing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup and press down to form a firm crust layer.

2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until fully combined.

3. Fill the cups: Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each muffin cup, over the graham cracker crust, dividing the mixture evenly between all cups. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

4. Bake: Bake the cheesecakes for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecakes in the oven for 10 minutes with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking. Afterward, remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecakes to set.

5. Caramelize the topping: Before serving, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of sugar on top of each cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cheesecakes under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

6. Serve: Once the sugar topping is crispy and cooled, serve the mini cheesecakes immediately or store them in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes

• Chilling Time: 4 hours minimum

• Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Fruit topping: Top with fresh fruit like berries, sliced strawberries, or citrus segments for a refreshing twist.

• Chocolate version: Add 2 tbsp of cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate version of the crème brûlée cheesecake.

• Nutty crust: Add crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to the graham cracker crust for extra texture and flavor.

• Coconut: Stir in a 1/4 cup of shredded coconut into the crust mixture for a tropical twist.

• Vegan version: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives for a plant-based treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the sugar topping is not caramelized until you are ready to serve.

• Reheating: These mini cheesecakes are best served cold. If you prefer, you can briefly chill them in the fridge to allow the topping to firm up before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these in advance?

Yes, these mini cheesecakes can be made a day ahead. Just allow them to cool and chill them in the refrigerator. Add the sugar topping and caramelize it right before serving.

2. Can I use a different crust?

Yes! You can use a cookie crust, such as an Oreo or shortbread crust, instead of the graham cracker crust for a different flavor.

3. Can I skip the torching step for the sugar crust?

While the torching gives the classic crème brûlée effect, you can skip it if you prefer. You can also place the cheesecakes under a broiler for a quick caramelized top, but be cautious as it can burn easily.

4. How do I know when the cheesecakes are done baking?

The cheesecakes are done when the edges are firm and the center has a slight jiggle to it. The center should not be fully set, as it will firm up in the fridge.

5. Can I use a 9-inch pan instead of mini pans?

Yes, you can use a 9-inch springform pan. You’ll need to adjust the baking time to 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your pan.

6. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar, and avoid opening the oven door too often while baking. Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature before refrigerating them to reduce the risk of cracks.

7. Can I freeze these cheesecakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecakes before caramelizing the sugar. Wrap each mini cheesecake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before adding the sugar topping and torching.

8. Can I make these without a kitchen torch?

Yes, you can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. Place the cheesecakes under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

9. What can I use instead of heavy cream in the filling?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter cream, such as half-and-half, though the texture might be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream.

10. How long do these mini cheesecakes last in the fridge?

They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.

Conclusion

These Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and the irresistible crunch of crème brûlée. They’re a showstopping dessert that’s sure to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special. With a rich, smooth filling and a crisp, caramelized sugar topping, these mini cheesecakes are as delicious as they are beautiful. Make them ahead of time for easy serving and enjoy the delight they bring to any occasion.