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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 325F (160C) and positioning cupcake liners in a muffin tin, creating a foundation for the delicate dessert.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Allow cupcakes to cool naturally at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of two hours to achieve optimal structural integrity and flavor melding.
- 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.
- 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