Silky Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Heavenly Silky Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Dessert

Decadent desserts often spark joy in every sweet-loving heart, and these silky creme brulee cheesecake bars elevate classic treats to an extraordinary level.

Rich, creamy textures dance across your palate with each luxurious bite.

The delicate balance of smooth cheesecake and caramelized sugar creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Crisp, golden tops contrast perfectly with the velvety underlying cream cheese base.

Each bar promises a delightful experience that blends traditional French and American dessert techniques.

These elegant treats transform an ordinary afternoon into a gourmet moment.

Prepare to indulge in a dessert that will become the star of any gathering.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the crust crispy and flavorful?

Graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar create a perfectly textured and tasty crust that complements the creamy cheesecake filling. The butter helps bind the crumbs together, while the sugar adds a subtle sweetness.

  • Why do I need to add flour to the cheesecake batter?

The flour helps stabilize the cheesecake filling, preventing it from cracking and creating a smoother, more consistent texture. It also helps the cheesecake set properly and maintain its shape when sliced.

  • How does the cooling process prevent cheesecake from cracking?

Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open helps prevent sudden temperature changes. This gradual cooling allows the cheesecake to set evenly and reduces the likelihood of unsightly cracks forming on the surface.

  • Can I use a broiler instead of a kitchen torch?

Yes, you can use the broiler setting in your oven to caramelize the sugar topping. Just place the cheesecake bars close to the broiler and watch carefully for 1-2 minutes to achieve the golden-brown caramelized crust without burning.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal

Servings: 13

Must-Have Ingredients for Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

For Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, sweet foundation with delightful crunch and nostalgic flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Enhances the crust's sweetness and helps create a golden-brown color.
  • Unsalted Butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds rich, smooth texture.
For Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates smooth, velvety base with tangy richness; choose full-fat for best texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances cream cheese's tanginess and provides perfect sweetness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth and enhances overall flavor profile.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling together; use room temperature eggs.
  • Sour Cream: Introduces subtle tanginess and ensures ultra-creamy, silky consistency.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Stabilizes filling and prevents excessive cracking during baking.
For Creme Brulee Topping:
  • Granulated Sugar: Creates crispy, caramelized layer with signature crackable texture; use fine sugar for even caramelization.

Tools to Build Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Just Right

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining cheesecake ingredients smoothly.
  • 9×13-inch baking pan: Perfect for creating even bars with easy parchment paper removal.
  • Parchment paper: Helps lift bars out cleanly and prevents sticking.
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer: Crucial for beating cream cheese and creating smooth batter.
  • Spatula: Great for spreading batter evenly and scraping bowl sides.
  • Kitchen torch: Ideal for caramelizing sugar topping perfectly (broiler works as backup).
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for precise ingredient quantities.
  • Cooling rack: Helps cheesecake cool evenly after baking.

Steps to Prepare Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

  • Craft the Buttery Base

Create a golden, crumbly foundation by mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a lined baking pan, transforming it into a delectable crust. Bake until it turns a warm, inviting shade of golden brown, then let it cool and await its creamy companion.

  • Whip Up the Silky Filling

Unleash the of cream cheese by beating it into a luxurious, smooth texture. Blend in sugar, vanilla, and eggs with gentle precision, creating a velvety batter that promises pure indulgence. Pour this dreamy mixture over the waiting crust, spreading it evenly with loving care.

  • Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into a warm oven, allowing the cheesecake to develop its signature creamy consistency. After 40-45 minutes, the edges will stand firm while the center remains tantalizingly soft. Let the cheesecake rest in the cooling oven, then refrigerate for several hours until it sets completely.

  • Torch the Decadent Topping

Transform the chilled cheesecake into a show-stopping dessert by sprinkling a layer of sugar across its surface. Wield a kitchen torch to create a crackling caramel crown, watching in awe as the sugar melts and bubbles into a glorious golden crust. If a torch isn’t available, a quick broil will work its just as well.

Ways to Switch Up Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

  • Gently tap the pan on the counter before baking to release air bubbles, ensuring a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • These bars can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, stored covered in the refrigerator, making them ideal for party planning or advance dessert preparation.
  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly version without compromising the rich, creamy texture.
  • Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange to add unique twist to the classic vanilla cheesecake base, creating exciting flavor variations that surprise and delight taste buds.
  • No kitchen torch? Use the broiler method carefully, keeping the oven door open and watching closely to prevent burning the sugar topping, ensuring that perfect caramelized crunch every time.

Serve Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars with Style

  • Dessert Pairing Paradise: Rich red wine like Port complements the creamy, caramelized flavors and cuts through the cheesecake's sweetness.
  • Elegant Garnish Upgrade: Scatter fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries around the bars to add vibrant color and tangy contrast to the rich dessert.
  • Texture Sensation Sidekick: Sprinkle crushed toasted almonds or pistachios on top for a delightful crunch that elevates the smooth cheesecake texture and adds nutty depth.
  • Presentation Perfection: Dust the plate with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before placing the bars for a restaurant-style finishing touch that makes the dessert look professionally prepared.

Store Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Without Fuss

  • Refrigerate bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and delicious.
  • Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
  • Always store these cheesecake bars chilled to maintain their creamy texture and prevent bacterial growth. Keep below 40°F for optimal safety.
  • Remove bars from refrigerator 10-15 minutes before enjoying to soften slightly, enhancing their rich, smooth flavor profile. Cut with a clean, warm knife for neat slices.
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Silky Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Silky Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rich Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars combine classic French dessert elegance with creamy American cheesecake. Caramelized sugar topping and silky filling create an irresistible dessert you cannot resist sampling.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Crust Preparation: Blend graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing firmly into a parchment-lined baking pan, then bake at 325F (160C) until golden and let cool completely.
  2. Cheesecake Mixture: Whip cream cheese until silky, gradually adding sugar and vanilla extract, then incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough blending after each addition.
  3. Batter Refinement: Gently fold in sour cream and flour, mixing until the cheesecake batter achieves a perfectly smooth consistency without lumps.
  4. Baking Process: Pour the creamy mixture over the prepared crust, distributing evenly, and bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are set and center remains slightly jiggly.
  5. Cooling Technique: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly ajar, preventing potential surface cracking.
  6. Chilling and Setting: Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to develop optimal flavor and achieve proper texture.
  7. Caramelization Finale: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar across the surface, then use a kitchen torch to create a crisp, golden-brown crust, moving continuously to ensure even caramelization.
  8. Serving Preparation: Allow the caramelized topping to cool and harden completely before slicing into elegant bars.

Notes

  • Prevent Cracking Technique: Cool the cheesecake gradually inside the oven with door slightly ajar to minimize surface cracks and maintain smooth texture.
  • Smooth Batter Secret: Ensure cream cheese is room temperature and whip thoroughly to eliminate lumps, creating a silky-smooth cheesecake base.
  • Precise Sugar Caramelization: Move torch constantly when creating brulee topping to avoid burning, aiming for an even golden-brown caramel layer.
  • Make-Ahead Advantage: Refrigerate cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop rich flavors and achieve perfect set consistency.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 23 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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