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Perfect Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

vanilla bean crème brûlée cheesecake cupcakes - featured image

Rich, creamy cheesecake cupcakes topped with a crackly, caramelized sugar layer and infused with fragrant vanilla bean for an elegant yet approachable dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Divide the mixture evenly among the cupcake liners and press down firmly to create a compact base. Bake for 5 minutes and set aside to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  4. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, vanilla bean seeds, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
  5. Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the prepared crusts in the cupcake liners. Use a small offset spatula or spoon to smooth the tops.
  6. Bake the cupcakes for 30-35 minutes, or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each cupcake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crackly. If using a broiler, place the cupcakes under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

[‘Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth cheesecake filling.’, ‘Press the crust firmly for a sturdy base.’, ‘Avoid overmixing the filling to prevent cracks.’, ‘Keep a close eye when caramelizing the sugar to avoid burning.’, ‘Allow the cupcakes to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours for the perfect texture.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Vanilla Bean, Crème Brûlée, Cheesecake, Cupcakes, Dessert, Elegant, Easy Recipe