Introduction

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized, crunchy topping of classic crème brûlée. These decadent dessert bars are an impressive yet approachable treat, perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or indulgent cravings. With a graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a crackling caramelized sugar top, these bars offer the perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe delivers the sophistication of crème brûlée in an easy-to-make cheesecake bar format. The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy base for the luscious cheesecake filling, while the caramelized sugar topping adds an elegant finish. These bars are baked in a simple 8×8-inch pan, making them a manageable yet luxurious dessert.

History and Origin

Crème brûlée, which means “burnt cream” in French, dates back to the 17th century and is known for its silky custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. Cheesecake, with its origins in ancient Greece, became popular worldwide for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This recipe fuses the two iconic desserts into a modern, approachable format that’s perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup heavy cream

For the Caramelized Topping:

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting later.
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a compact crust.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, blending until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set.

4. Add the Caramelized Topping:

Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar by heating it until it melts and turns golden brown, forming a hard, crackling layer. Work in sections to ensure an even caramelization.
Let the caramelized sugar cool briefly before slicing the cheesecake into bars.

5. Slice and Serve:

Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhangs. Place on a cutting board and slice into 12 even bars.
Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate and serve later.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are versatile and pair beautifully with:

Fresh fruit: Serve alongside berries like raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
Coffee or tea: The creamy, sweet flavor complements the bitterness of coffee or the subtlety of tea.
Whipped cream: Add a dollop for extra indulgence.
Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of dark chocolate enhances the flavors and adds visual appeal.

Variations of the Recipe

Chocolate Crust: Replace graham crackers with chocolate wafer crumbs for a richer base.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing hint of citrus.
Spiced Crust: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the graham cracker crust for a warm, spiced flavor.
Alcohol-Free Topping Alternative: Instead of torching sugar, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for a similar caramelized effect without the torch.

Health Benefits Notes

While these cheesecake bars are a treat, they offer:

Calcium and protein from the cream cheese and heavy cream.
Moderate portion control due to their bar format, making them a more mindful indulgence compared to a full cheesecake.

That said, they are best enjoyed as an occasional dessert due to their rich ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be prepared a day or two in advance. Wait to add the caramelized topping until just before serving for the best texture.

2. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

Place the cheesecake under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the sugar. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

3. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, freeze them without the caramelized topping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add the topping before serving.

4. How can I ensure a smooth cheesecake layer?

Use softened cream cheese and blend thoroughly to avoid lumps. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.

5. What’s the best way to slice the bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for smooth, clean slices.

Conclusion

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are an elegant and indulgent dessert that combines the best of two classic treats. With their creamy filling, crunchy crust, and caramelized sugar topping, these bars are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, they’re sure to leave a lasting impression.

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Recipe