Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a decadent, individual twist on the classic French dessert. These mini cheesecakes combine the rich, creamy texture of a traditional cheesecake with the signature crispy caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée. The result is an irresistible dessert that is both indulgent and elegant. Whether for a special occasion or a sophisticated treat, these mini cheesecakes are the perfect combination of creamy, smooth filling and a crunchy, sweet finish. Ideal for dinner parties, celebrations, or a fancy night in, these bite-sized delights will surely wow your guests.

I remember the first time I made these for a dinner gathering. As soon as I cracked the caramelized sugar top, the smooth, velvety cheesecake filling revealed itself, and my guests couldn’t get enough. What I love about these mini cheesecakes is how versatile they are—you can infuse them with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even fruit to personalize them to your liking. The contrast between the creamy, tangy filling and the crisp, sweet sugar topping makes each bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Making them is surprisingly easy too. With a simple graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, and a touch of sugar to create that signature brûlée effect, these mini desserts come together quickly. Whether you’re preparing them for a celebration or just to treat yourself, these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are sure to leave a lasting impression!

Perfect for:

  • Dinner parties
  • Special occasions
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Elegant gatherings
  • Crème brûlée lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes:

  • Rich and Creamy Cheesecake: The silky smooth cheesecake filling provides the perfect base for the caramelized topping.
  • Crispy Crème Brûlée Top: The sugar is caramelized with a torch, giving these cheesecakes the signature crunchy, golden crust of crème brûlée.
  • Miniature Size: These individual cheesecakes are perfectly portioned, making them ideal for elegant presentations and easy serving.
  • Elegant and Impressive: These mini cheesecakes look beautiful and sophisticated, making them perfect for impressing guests.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these mini cheesecakes in advance and add the caramelized sugar topping just before serving.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 3 hours
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes:

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup heavy cream

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cream Cheese: Adds the creamy, rich texture necessary for a smooth cheesecake.
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a buttery, crunchy crust that complements the creamy filling.
  • Heavy Cream: Contributes to the smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
  • Granulated Sugar: Used for both the filling and the caramelized topping, creating the sweet contrast with the creamy base.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes:

Prepare the Crust:

  1. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
  2. Press the Crust into the Muffin Tin: Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner. Use the back of a spoon to compact the crust. Refrigerate the crusts while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

  1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Add the Flour and Heavy Cream: Mix in the flour until smooth. Then, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until fully combined.
  4. Fill the Muffin Tin: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crusts in the muffin tin, filling each almost to the top.
  5. Bake the Cheesecakes: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set but slightly jiggly in the center. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set.

Caramelize the Sugar Topping:

  1. Add the Sugar Topping: Once the cheesecakes are chilled and firm, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of each cheesecake.
  2. Caramelize with a Torch: Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar, moving the flame evenly across the surface until it melts and turns golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can broil the cheesecakes in the oven for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Serve: Let the mini cheesecakes sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the caramelized sugar to harden slightly. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

How to Serve

  • With Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and added sweetness.
  • As a Showstopper for Special Occasions: These mini cheesecakes are perfect for events like weddings, birthdays, or fancy dinner parties.
  • With a Hot Drink: Pair with coffee, espresso, or a rich dessert wine to complement the dessert’s flavors.
  • For a Light Dessert: Serve as part of a dessert trio, with lighter treats like fruit tarts or chocolate mousse.

Additional Tips

  1. Beat the Cream Cheese Well:
    To achieve a smooth, lump-free filling, beat the cream cheese thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
  2. Don’t Overfill:
    Fill each muffin tin just to the top, as the cheesecake will puff up slightly during baking. Overfilling can lead to spillage.
  3. Chill Properly:
    Chill the cheesecakes for at least 3 hours to ensure they set properly before adding the topping.
  4. Caramelize Evenly:
    Whether using a torch or broiler, aim for an even layer of sugar on each cheesecake to achieve a consistent, golden crust.
  5. Check for Doneness:
    The cheesecakes should still have a slight jiggle in the center when done. Overbaking can affect their texture.
  6. Personalize the Flavor:
    For a unique twist, try adding citrus zest (lemon or orange) to the filling for a fresh contrast to the rich flavor.
  7. Use Room Temperature Ingredients:
    Bring your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smoother, creamier batter.
  8. Let the Topping Harden:
    After caramelizing the sugar, let the crust set for a few minutes before serving so it crisps up.
  9. Serve with Whipped Cream:
    A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can complement the richness of the mini cheesecakes.

Recipe Variations

  1. Chocolate Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  2. Berry Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  3. Pumpkin Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes (for Fall)
  4. Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  5. Coffee Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  6. Orange Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  7. Raspberry Lemon Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  8. Pistachio Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  9. Coconut Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
  10. Vegan Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: These mini cheesecakes freeze well! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Cupcake liners
  • Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar)
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make these ahead of time?
    Yes, these mini cheesecakes can be made up to a day in advance. Just add the sugar topping and caramelize it right before serving.
  2. Do I need a kitchen torch?
    No, if you don’t have a torch, you can broil them in the oven on high for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  3. Can I use a different crust?
    Absolutely! You can use an Oreo crust, shortbread crust, or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option.
  4. Can I make these gluten-free?
    Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust, and ensure the filling ingredients are all gluten-free.
  5. Can I add fruit on top?
    Fresh fruit such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries pairs beautifully with these mini cheesecakes for added flavor and a pop of color.
  6. How can I make the sugar topping smoother?
    For a smoother caramelized topping, ensure the sugar is spread evenly across the cheesecakes and avoid excess sugar clumps.
  7. What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
    You can use a tart pan or mini springform pans to achieve the same mini cheesecake effect, adjusting the baking time as needed.
  8. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
    Let the cheesecakes cool gradually before refrigerating. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause cracks.

Conclusion

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—creamy, velvety cheesecake topped with the signature crunchy, caramelized sugar of crème brûlée. These bite-sized treats are both elegant and indulgent, making them a standout dessert for any occasion.

Each mini cheesecake is perfectly portioned for a satisfying, refined experience, and the contrast between the smooth cheesecake and crispy sugar topping adds a delightful texture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something special, these little desserts are sure to impress and disappear in no time.

I’d love to see how your Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy every bite!

Leave a Comment