Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes combine the luscious creaminess of classic cheesecake with the signature caramelized sugar crust of crème brûlée. These elegant, bite-sized desserts offer a rich, creamy texture topped with a satisfying caramelized crunch, perfect for parties, special occasions, or anytime you crave a sophisticated treat that is both familiar and exciting.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free crusts)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crust
- Mini graham cracker crusts or cookie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- Prepare the Crust: Press mini graham cracker or cookie crusts firmly into the bottoms of a mini muffin tin or silicone mold to create a crisp base for the cheesecake filling.
- Mix the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, then incorporate the eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is silky and free of lumps for a smooth texture.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over each crust, filling just below the rim. Bake at a low temperature (approximately 325°F / 160°C) until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, to keep the texture creamy.
- Chill and Set: Allow the mini cheesecakes to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to firm up and enhance flavor melding.
- Caramelize the Tops: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on each cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crackly crust characteristic of crème brûlée.
Notes
- Bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Bake at a moderate, low temperature to avoid cracks and maintain a creamy texture.
- Use fine granulated sugar (such as caster sugar) for an even caramelized crust.
- Do not skip chilling; refrigeration helps the cheesecakes firm up and enhances the flavors.
- When torching, keep the flame moving to prevent burning and ensure a perfect golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mini cheesecake, crème brûlée, bite-sized dessert, caramelized sugar, party dessert, creamy cheesecake, elegant dessert