Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

A classic vanilla bean creme brulee cheesecake cupcake beckons with its luxurious layers of creamy decadence.

Sweet dreams come alive in each delicate bite.

Crisp caramelized sugar tops a silky cream cheese foundation that melts effortlessly on your tongue.

Rich custard whispers sophisticated dessert elegance through delicate vanilla notes.

Subtle sophistication meets playful cupcake charm in this irresistible treat.

Delicate textures and complex flavors dance across your palate with every forkful.

Unlock the magic of this extraordinary dessert that promises to delight even the most discerning sweet tooth.

How to Make Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Workspace

Warm the oven to 325F (160C). Position the rack in the middle. Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Sugar
• Melted butter

Blend ingredients until they stick together. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner, creating a solid foundation.

Step 3: Whip the Creamy Filling

• Scraped vanilla bean seeds
• Eggs (add one at a time)
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Blend gently until ingredients are fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.

Step 4: Bake the Delicate Cupcakes

Pour cheesecake mixture into lined muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Slide the tin into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until centers are set but slightly wobbly. Remove and cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Refrigerate and Chill

Transfer cupcakes to the refrigerator. Let them rest and firm up for at least 2 hours. This helps develop a rich, smooth texture.

Step 6: Create the Crispy Caramel Topping

Right before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar over each chilled cupcake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and forms a crisp shell. For those without a torch, carefully broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Final Flourish and Serve

Let the caramel layer cool and harden slightly. Garnish with fresh berries or a mint sprig for an elegant touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the luxurious combination of creamy cheesecake and crackling caramel.

Tips for Smooth Creme Brulee Topping

• Precise Pressing Technique: Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a shot glass to firmly pack the graham cracker crust into the cupcake liners, ensuring an even and compact base for your cheesecake cupcakes.
• Prevent Overmixing Wisdom: Gently fold the ingredients together, stopping as soon as they're combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking and affect the smooth texture of your cheesecake.
• Smooth Torch Technique: Hold the kitchen torch about 2 inches away from the sugar surface, moving constantly to create an even golden-brown caramel crust without burning the delicate topping.
• Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate the cheesecake cupcakes for at least 2 hours before caramelizing, as completely chilled cupcakes will hold their shape better and provide the best texture and flavor.
• Customize with Creativity: Experiment with different toppings like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to personalize these elegant individual desserts.

Store & Reheat Creme Brulee Cupcakes Right

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the caramelized sugar topping separate to maintain its crispy texture.
• Wrap individual cheesecake cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 weeks, removing the sugar topping before freezing.
• Transfer frozen cupcakes to the refrigerator overnight, allowing them to defrost slowly and retain their creamy consistency.
• Re-caramelize the sugar topping just before serving to restore the signature crisp and golden crunch.

Drinks and Sweets That Pair Well

• Select a luscious Sauternes or late-harvest Riesling to complement the rich, creamy texture of the vanilla bean cheesecake cupcakes. These sweet wines match the dessert's delicate vanilla notes and provide a luxurious contrast to the caramelized sugar topping.
• Top each cupcake with fresh raspberries or blackberries to add a bright, tangy element that cuts through the cheesecake's richness. The berries' natural acidity helps balance the sweet, creamy dessert while introducing a vibrant color and fresh taste.
• Serve alongside a shot of espresso or a smooth cappuccino to highlight the dessert's deep vanilla undertones. The coffee's robust flavor profile and slight bitterness beautifully offset the cupcakes' sweetness, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
• Pour a crisp, dry champagne or prosecco to elevate the cupcakes' elegance. The sparkling wine's effervescence cleanses the palate between bites and complements the caramelized sugar's golden crunch, making each bite feel like a celebration.

Flavor Spins on These Cupcakes

• Low-Carb Almond Crust: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour and reduce sugar for a keto-friendly version that cuts down on carbohydrates while maintaining a delicious nutty base.
• Dairy-Free Coconut Dream: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, creating a luscious plant-based alternative for those with dairy restrictions.
• Gluten-Free Nutty Base: Use gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed nuts like pecans as a substitute for graham crackers, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this decadent dessert.
• Seasonal Berry Remix: Top the cupcakes with seasonal fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries, adding a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the classic vanilla bean recipe.

Why Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Impress

• Create show-stopping treats without professional baking skills.
• Prepare these elegant cupcakes in under an hour with straightforward steps and common kitchen tools.
• Impress guests with restaurant-quality desserts featuring a dramatic caramelized sugar topping that cracks beautifully with each spoon.
• Perfect for intimate dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or special occasions that demand a sophisticated yet approachable sweet finale.

Ingredients for Creme Brulee Cupcakes

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base with sweet and buttery flavor, perfect for creating a sturdy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
• Butter (Melted): Provides richness and helps the crust hold its shape.

• Cream Cheese (Softened): The primary creamy base that gives the cheesecake its signature texture, best when at room temperature.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess of cream cheese and adds sweetness.
• Vanilla Bean Seeds or Vanilla Bean Paste: Offers deep, authentic vanilla flavor with beautiful specks throughout the filling.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, luxurious texture and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall vanilla flavor profile.

• Granulated Sugar: Creates a crisp, caramelized layer that adds crunch and sweetness to the cheesecake.
• Fresh Berries (Optional): Provides a fresh, colorful garnish.
• Fresh Mint (Optional): Adds a decorative and aromatic touch to the final presentation.

Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent vanilla bean creme brulee cheesecake cupcakes blend classic French and American dessert traditions into one luxurious bite. Smooth cream cheese filling nestled in buttery graham cracker crust meets caramelized sugar topping, promising pure dessert bliss for passionate bakers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste)

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) graham cracker crumbs
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) granulated sugar

Topping Ingredients:

• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 325F (160C) and positioning cupcake liners in a muffin tin, creating a foundation for the delicate dessert.
2. Craft the graham cracker base by blending crumbs with sugar and melted butter, ensuring a uniform mixture. Press this foundation gently but firmly into each cupcake liner, establishing a crisp, buttery platform.
3. Create the luxurious cheesecake filling by whipping cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, smooth consistency. Incorporate vanilla bean seeds, introducing an aromatic depth. Gently fold in eggs, one at a time, then blend in heavy cream and vanilla extract, maintaining a light, airy texture without overworking the mixture.
4. Distribute the velvety cheesecake batter evenly across the lined muffin tin, filling each compartment approximately three-quarters full. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake until centers appear set yet slightly tremulous, approximately 20-25 minutes.
5. Allow cupcakes to cool naturally at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of two hours to achieve optimal structural integrity and flavor melding.
6. Moments before serving, sprinkle a delicate layer of granulated sugar atop each chilled cupcake. Utilize a kitchen torch to transform the sugar into a glistening, caramelized shell, creating a dramatic contrast of textures. For those without a torch, carefully broil for 1-2 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent scorching.
7. Present the cupcakes immediately after caramelization, optionally adorning with fresh berries or a mint sprig to elevate the visual appeal and introduce a complementary freshness.

Notes

• Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling and prevent cracking during baking.
• Keep a close eye when caramelizing sugar to achieve a perfect golden crust without burning, rotating the torch constantly for even coloration.
• Make ahead and store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, adding the caramelized sugar topping just before serving to maintain crispness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg