Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Dreamy Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Smooth creme brulee cheesecake bars promise a delightful twist on classic desserts.

Rich custard meets creamy cheesecake in this decadent treat.

Crisp caramelized sugar adds a dramatic crunch to each silky bite.

Pastry chefs have long celebrated the magic of contrasting textures.

Delicate flavors dance between sweet cream and deep caramel notes.

Guests will marvel at the elegant simplicity of these bars.

Your dessert table deserves this extraordinary confection that blends French technique with American comfort.

Crack through the golden top and savor every incredible moment.

Fun Variations on Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

Gluten-Free Wonder: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to create a celiac-friendly version of the dessert.

Vegan Deconstructed Bars: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based alternative.

Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia in both crust and filling, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor profile.

Mediterranean Inspiration: Incorporate orange zest into the cheesecake batter and use pistachios in the crust for a nutty, fragrant Mediterranean-style dessert that adds unique complexity to the original recipe.

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars: Why They Hit the Spot

  • Perfect for impressing guests with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Combines two beloved desserts- cheesecake and creme brulee- into one irresistible treat.
  • Can be prepared a day in advance, reducing last-minute stress and allowing flavors to develop.
  • The caramelized sugar topping creates a stunning visual and satisfying crack when served, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant-style dessert.

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars: Everything You Need

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base that provides a crunchy and sweet foundation for the bars.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
  • Butter (Melted): Ensures the crust holds its shape and provides rich flavor.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese (Softened): Main component that creates the creamy and smooth cheesecake texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
  • Eggs: Provides structure and helps bind the filling.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and tanginess to the cheesecake.
  • Flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake and prevent cracking.
Creme Brulee Topping Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: Creates the classic crispy, caramelized top characteristic of creme brulee.

Bake Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars with Ease

Step 1: Craft the Crumbly Base

  • Fire up the oven to 325F (160C) and drape a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
  • Grab a mixing bowl and toss together
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Sugar
  • Melted butter
  • Mix until the blend looks like damp beach sand.
  • Press the mixture firmly into the pan, creating a solid foundation.
  • Slide the pan into the oven and bake until golden, about 10 minutes.
  • Pull out and let it cool down slightly.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Layer

  • Grab your mixer and beat cream cheese until silky smooth.
  • Fold in sugar and vanilla, blending until fully incorporated.
  • Add eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
  • Gently stir in
  • Sour cream
  • Flour
  • Mix until the batter looks perfectly smooth.
  • Pour the luscious mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.

Step 3: Bake and Rest the Cheesecake

  • Bake at 325F (160C) for 40-45 minutes.
  • Look for set edges with a slight wobble in the center.
  • Switch off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for an hour.
  • Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Create the Crackling Caramel Top

  • Sprinkle a generous layer of sugar across the chilled cheesecake.
  • Grab a kitchen torch and carefully melt the sugar until it turns golden and crispy.
  • No torch? Slide under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching like a hawk.
  • Allow the caramel to harden completely.
  • Slice into delectable bars and serve.

Insider Tips for Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

  • Prevent Crust Crumbling: Firmly press graham cracker mixture into the pan to create a compact, stable base that holds together when cutting bars.
  • Avoid Cheesecake Cracks: Cool the cheesecake slowly inside the oven with the door slightly open to minimize temperature shock and prevent unsightly surface splits.
  • Master Caramelization Technique: Use a kitchen torch on low, steady movement to create an even, golden-brown sugar crust without burning the delicate surface.
  • Temperature Control is Key: Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature for smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter that blends perfectly.
  • Precise Chilling Matters: Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop rich flavors and achieve the ideal sliceable texture.

Storing Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars the Smart Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping the bars flat to preserve the crispy caramelized topping.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for maximum flavor and texture.
  • Remove frozen bars from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid leaving at room temperature to prevent soggy texture.
  • Gently warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best taste and consistency.

What to Serve with Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

  • A rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon cuts through the dessert's richness, complementing its decadent texture with deep fruit notes.
  • Crisp, bubbly champagne provides a refreshing counterpoint to the dense cheesecake, cleansing the palate between sweet bites.
  • Strong, dark espresso intensifies the caramelized sugar's depth, creating a sophisticated flavor interaction that enhances the dessert's complexity.
  • Sweet, fortified port wine echoes the caramel notes while adding a luxurious berry undertone that harmonizes with the creamy cheesecake base.
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Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy creme brulee cheesecake bars blend French elegance with classic American dessert traditions. Rich custard layers nestled on a buttery graham cracker base promise pure indulgence for dessert enthusiasts wanting something extraordinary.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (450 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Topping and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Create the foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined baking pan.
  2. Bake the crust at 325F (160C) until it achieves a golden hue, then allow it to cool completely.
  3. Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sugar and vanilla extract.
  4. Introduce eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition to ensure a uniform texture.
  5. Fold in sour cream and flour, mixing until the cheesecake batter becomes perfectly smooth and lump-free.
  6. Gently pour the creamy mixture over the prepared crust, using a spatula to distribute evenly.
  7. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, watching for slightly jiggly center with set edges.
  8. Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly open, preventing potential cracking.
  9. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal setting and flavor development.
  10. Before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar across the surface.
  11. Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch, moving continuously to create a crisp, golden-brown crust. (Alternatively, use oven broiler with extreme caution.)
  12. Let the caramelized topping cool and harden completely before slicing into elegant bars.

Notes

  • Create a stable crust by pressing graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to prevent crumbling when cutting bars.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling without overmixing.
  • Prevent cheesecake cracking by using a water bath method or letting it cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly open.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to maintain the same texture and flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 27 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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