Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

These Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars turn the classic French dessert into something even easier and tastier! Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a cozy night at home, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla bean cheesecake filling, and a delightful crunchy bruleed sugar topping. Their unique flavor profile and elegant presentation will impress your guests while being simple enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of crème brûlée paired with rich cheesecake in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip these bars up quickly without fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these bars are sure to please.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance, letting their flavors meld overnight for an even better taste.
• Elegant Presentation: The caramelized sugar topping adds a sophisticated touch that elevates your dessert game.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier. Having the right equipment on hand ensures everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen torch (for caramelizing)
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes blending the cream cheese and sugar effortless, achieving a smooth batter.
• Kitchen torch: Provides a controlled flame that allows you to perfectly caramelize the sugar topping for that signature brûlée finish.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 9 whole (135 grams) graham crackers
• 5 tablespoons (72 grams) unsalted butter, (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, (completely softened at room temperature)
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs, (at room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk, (at room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar

How to Make Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, crush the graham crackers until fine crumbs form.
2. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even layer.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the heavy cream, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla bean paste, and sea salt. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Allow your cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 6: Create the Brulee Topping

1. Once chilled, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
2. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize this sugar until it forms a crispy layer. Let it cool before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your deliciously easy Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve these bars with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle adds extra sweetness and a rich flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the vanilla notes in the bars.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lighten the dessert by adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheesecake.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these bars with a cup of coffee or tea creates a perfect balance. The bitterness of the coffee or tea enhances the sweetness of the dessert.

Served Chilled

• For a refreshing take, chill the bars before serving. This makes them even more enjoyable, especially during warm weather.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for an aromatic touch. It not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars is easier than you think. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air into the batter, which can cause cracks during baking.
• Bake in a water bath: This technique helps regulate temperature and keeps your cheesecake creamy without cracks.
• Cool gradually: Allow your cheesecake bars to cool slowly in the oven after baking to prevent sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracking.
• Torch for caramelization: Use a kitchen torch for an even bruleed sugar topping. This gives you control over caramelization without overcooking the cheesecake.

Best Side Dishes for Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

When serving Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, consider these delicious side dishes that complement their rich flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides balance and contrast to the creamy bar.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Indulge further with airy chocolate mousse, which adds richness while contrasting with the vanilla notes.
3. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a bright flavor against the sweet cheesecake bars.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience with its creamy texture and familiar flavor.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti make for great dipping companions, adding texture alongside your bars.
6. Espresso or Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake pairs nicely with coffee beverages, making it perfect for brunch gatherings alongside dessert.
7. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons bring an interesting texture and hint of tropical flavor that pairs well with cheesecake.
8. Mini Fruit Tarts: These tarts add variety in flavor and presentation while complementing the richness of the cheesecake bars perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dessert game.

• Skipping the softening step: Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature. This prevents a lumpy texture in your cheesecake filling.
• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements. Incorrect ratios can lead to a cheesecake that doesn’t set properly.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air. Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake bars.
• Forgetting the salt: Don’t skip adding fine sea salt. It enhances the flavor of the cheesecake and balances sweetness.
• Using low-quality vanilla: Opt for pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for the best flavor. Imitation vanilla will not provide the same depth.
• Not chilling sufficiently: Allow your cheesecake bars to cool completely before refrigerating. Chilling helps them set and makes slicing easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars.

Can I use another crust type for Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?

You can substitute graham crackers with crushed cookies like Oreos or shortbread. Adjust butter as needed based on the type of cookie used.

How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done baking?

The edges should be set, while the center may still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making them perfect for entertaining.

What toppings work well with Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?

Fresh fruits like berries or chocolate shavings can add extra flavor and visual appeal to your dessert!

Final Thoughts

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines creamy textures with a crunchy topping. Their versatility allows you to customize with various flavors or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!