Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the ultimate dessert fusion, bringing together two beloved classics: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the dramatic caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée.
If you adore the silken texture of French custard but can't resist the luxurious tang of classic cheesecake, this recipe is your culinary dream come true.
Originating from the sophisticated dining tables of France, crème brûlée has long enchanted gourmands with its simple yet elegant combination of rich custard and a shattering caramel crust. Meanwhile, cheesecake, with its origins traced back to ancient Greece and perfected in modern kitchens worldwide, is synonymous with comfort and celebration.
Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes combine the best of both worlds into portable, party-perfect portions. Their petite size makes them ideal for gatherings, holiday spreads, or just treating yourself to a little bit of indulgence any day of the week.
As more home bakers seek unique twists on dessert staples, these mini marvels deliver both wow factor and unforgettable flavor. With a buttery crust, a velvety filling, and that iconic, brûléed sugar finish, Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes offer a sophisticated yet approachable treat.
Whether you're impressing guests or savoring a quiet evening, these individual cheesecakes bring French pastry shop nostalgia right to your kitchen, and they're surprisingly easy to make with everyday ingredients. Get ready to learn how to master this crowd-pleasing, Instagram-worthy dessert and bring a piece of Paris to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 8 teaspoons turbinado (raw) sugar, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a standard muffin pan with 8 cupcake liners and set aside.
- Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Spoon about one tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each liner. Press the crumbs down firmly with the back of a spoon or a shot glass to create an even layer.
- Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add in the granulated sugar and beat until fully incorporated and the mixture is fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl for a smooth texture.
- Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sea salt, beating on low until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the prepared crusts, filling each liner almost to the top.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the centers are just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecakes inside with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes. Then remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature in the pan.
- Transfer the cooled cheesecakes to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, remove the paper liners and sprinkle about a teaspoon of turbinado sugar evenly over each cheesecake.
- Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt and caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp, rotating for even coverage. Allow the sugar to cool for a minute to set the crisp shell.
- Serve immediately for the perfect crunchy-topped Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes experience.
Nutritional Information
Each Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake contains approximately 290 calories, with 20 grams of fat, 22 grams of carbohydrate, and 4 grams of protein per serving. Most of the calories derive from the creamy cheesecake filling, which uses full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a luxuriously smooth texture.
These ingredients contribute healthy fats, while the graham cracker crust offers a small amount of dietary fiber. The classic brûlée topping, made with turbinado sugar, provides a sweet crunch and a quick energy boost but should be enjoyed in moderation.
With only about 18 grams of sugar per serving, these mini cheesecakes are portion controlled, making them easy to fit into a balanced diet if you're mindful of your intake. Each serving also supplies trace minerals like calcium, from the dairy elements, which support bone health.
By enjoying Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes as an occasional indulgence, you can savor their creamy, satisfying flavors within a healthy lifestyle. For those monitoring specific dietary needs, reducing the sugar or opting for a lighter crust can help adapt the recipe to better suit your nutrition goals.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The ideal pairing for Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes is a sweet dessert wine, such as Sauternes or a late-harvest Riesling. These wines echo the caramel and vanilla notes found in the brûlée topping and the cheesecake's custardy filling.
For a lighter alternative, serve with a crisp sparkling wine-such as Moscato d'Asti or Champagne-which cuts through the richness with its effervescence and slight acidity. Coffee lovers will appreciate the contrast of strong espresso or cappuccino, whose bold flavors stand up beautifully to the sweet, creamy desserts.
For a non-alcoholic pairing, try cold-brew coffee, vanilla bean tea, or a classic caramel steamer to complement the caramelized top. Each beverage choice enhances the intricate flavors of Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, elevating your dessert experience.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To achieve the best results with your Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, use high-quality, full-fat cream cheese for the silkiest filling. Always bring all your dairy ingredients-cream cheese, eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream-to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and to ensure even baking.
For the mere caramelized sugar topping, a kitchen torch offers a professional finish, producing that signature thin and crisp shell essential to the true crème brûlée experience. If you don't have a torch, place the sugared cheesecakes under an oven broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
For flavor variations, experiment by infusing the batter with a teaspoon of espresso powder, a swirl of fruit puree, or a shot of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto. Swap the graham cracker crust for crushed biscotti or chocolate wafer cookies for a bolder base.
For a gluten-free version, use GF cookies for the crust. These cheesecakes also freeze well: skip the brûlée step, freeze after baking and cooling, then thaw and brûlée just before serving. This flexibility allows you to plan ahead for entertaining or special occasions.
Always allow adequate chilling time, as the creamy texture benefits from a long rest in the refrigerator. With a little practice, you'll find your personal favorite take on Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes that dazzles every time.
Serving Suggestions
To serve Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes at their finest, remove them from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving, allowing them to lose some chill without becoming too soft.
Present them on a beautiful platter or individual dessert plates and, for an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh berries such as raspberries, sliced strawberries, or blueberries. A light scattering of edible flowers or microgreens can add visual flair.
Place each mini cheesecake in a decorative cupcake liner or on parchment paper for easy handling at buffets and parties. These treats are perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, bridal showers, holiday gatherings, or romantic dinners-where their dainty size encourages guests to indulge in more than one dessert.
You can arrange them alongside other mini sweets for a playful dessert sampler or pair with seasonal fruit compote for a pop of color and freshness. The golden, glassy sugar topping shatters delightfully with each bite, creating an exciting sensory experience.
Remind your guests to enjoy the first crack of caramelized sugar with a small spoon for the full effect. No matter the setting, Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Health Benefits
Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, while indulgent in nature, can be incorporated into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Their dairy-rich composition provides a source of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for bone strength and development.
Cream cheese and sour cream contribute protein and essential fatty acids, supporting satiety and healthy cell functions. The antioxidants in vanilla extract may help combat oxidative stress, and using turbinado sugar for the brûlée topping offers a minimally processed sweetener option.
For health-conscious adaptations, consider substituting low-fat dairy products or using Neufchâtel cheese, which lower saturated fat and overall calorie content. Incorporate whole grain or nut-based crusts for added fiber and nutrients. Portion control is effortless with these minis, limiting the temptation to overindulge.
While Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are higher in sugar and fat than everyday snacks, their special-occasion status encourages mindful enjoyment that fits within overall healthy eating patterns. If you're managing sugar, use a natural low-calorie sweetener in the filling and top.
Always pair indulgent treats with nutrient-dense meals and plenty of physical activity for a holistic, healthful approach to dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can bake and chill these cheesecakes up to 48 hours in advance. Add the sugar topping and caramelize with a torch or broiler just before serving for the freshest, crackling caramel shell.
While a kitchen torch creates the best brûlée topping, you can achieve a similar effect using your oven's broiler. Watch closely to prevent burning and rotate the cheesecakes for even caramelization.
Absolutely! Freeze the baked and cooled cheesecakes without the sugar topping. Thaw in the refrigerator, then brûlée just before serving for optimal texture.
Swap the graham cracker crust for gluten-free cookies or nut-based crusts. The filling and topping are naturally gluten-free when these adjustments are made.
Always use room temperature ingredients, avoid over-mixing, and bake at moderate heat to prevent cracking or curdling. Let the cheesecakes chill thoroughly for a velvety texture.
Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes deliver all the sophistication of a French patisserie in a bite-sized treat that's perfect for sharing and savoring. Their blend of rich, creamy cheesecake and shattering caramel top offers an unforgettable dessert experience that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Simple to make yet stunning in presentation, these mini delights are sure to become a favorite for parties, celebrations, and moments when you want to indulge at home. With countless tips for customizing flavors and an inviting serving style, this recipe for Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes will inspire compliments and delight every palate. Enjoy bringing a little bit of French-inspired magic to your table today.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
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1Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
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2Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each liner to form a crust.
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3In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and ½ cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until creamy.
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4Divide the cheesecake filling among the prepared cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until centers are just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
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5Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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