Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

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Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes Recipe

Introduction

Crème brûlée and cheesecake are two beloved desserts, each with its creamy texture and indulgent flavors. This recipe combines them into bite-sized delights: Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes. These treats feature a luscious cream cheese filling, a crunchy caramelized sugar topping, and a graham cracker crust. Perfect for entertaining, they bring elegance and sophistication to any dessert table.

History

Crème brûlée, French for “burnt cream,” dates back to the 17th century and became iconic in European cuisine. Cheesecake, with its origins in ancient Greece, has evolved over centuries into a global favorite. This fusion pays homage to both traditions, merging the delicate, custard-like essence of crème brûlée with the rich, dense character of cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1/4 cup heavy cream

Crème Brûlée Topping:

1/3 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottoms of a greased muffin tin lined with paper liners.
  4. Bake for 5 minutes and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
  2. Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and blend until the mixture is creamy.
  4. Spoon the filling over the crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecakes

  1. Place the muffin tin on the middle rack of your oven.
  2. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
  3. Remove from the oven and cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Add the Crème Brûlée Topping

  1. Remove the cheesecakes from their liners and sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over the tops.
  2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown.
  3. Allow the caramelized sugar to harden for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Benefits

  1. Versatile Serving Size: Perfectly portioned for parties and gatherings.
  2. Rich in Flavor: Combines the best of two iconic desserts.
  3. Customizable: Add fruit, chocolate, or other toppings for variety.
  4. Calcium and Protein: Cream cheese and heavy cream offer essential nutrients.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 250

Protein: 4g

Fat: 18g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Calcium: 10% DV

Conclusion

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a delightful dessert that offers the best of both worlds. They captivate lovers of cheesecake and crème brûlée alike, creating a fusion that’s both innovative and nostalgic. Whether served at weddings, holidays, or casual dinners, these elegant treats leave a lasting impression.

For Dessert Lovers

This recipe is perfect for anyone who adores creamy, decadent desserts. Crème brûlée enthusiasts will love the caramelized sugar crunch, while cheesecake fans will savor the rich, velvety texture. These mini desserts are proof that when two classics collide, culinary magic happens!

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