Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake (Print-Friendly Version)

Delicate vanilla bean cheesecake cupcakes with a crisp brûlée sugar crust. Perfect for spring gatherings, dessert tables, or unique celebrations. An elevated twist on classic favorites, these bite-sized treats are one to keep handy.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
08 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

→ Crème Brûlée Topping

09 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until evenly moistened, then press about 1 to 2 tablespoons into the base of each cupcake liner, compacting with the back of a spoon.
03 - Blend softened cream cheese and sugar together until mixture is smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate vanilla bean seeds or extract and flour, beating until just combined.
04 - Divide cheesecake batter evenly among lined muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until centers are just set.
05 - Allow cheesecakes to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal texture.
06 - Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over each chilled cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize sugar until golden and crisp. Alternatively, broil for 1–2 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
07 - Serve chilled, topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Chilling the cheesecakes overnight deepens flavor and improves texture for a creamier result.
02 - Substitute chocolate wafer cookies for the crust base to add rich cocoa notes.
03 - Garnish with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of caramel for enhanced presentation.

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