Have you ever craved the creamy richness of cheesecake combined with the crackly caramelized top of crème brûlée? These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes bring together the best of both desserts in a delightful, single-serving format. Perfect for parties, holidays, or an indulgent treat, these cupcakes are easier to make than you might think. Let’s dive into how you can create these gourmet delights in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cupcakes are not only visually stunning but also deliver an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy caramelized sugar topping contrasts beautifully with the velvety cheesecake filling and buttery graham cracker crust. Plus, they’re perfectly portioned, making them a convenient option for serving and sharing.

Ingredients Breakdown

Crust

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Graham Cracker Crumbs	1 cup	Forms the crunchy base
Granulated Sugar	2 tbsp	Adds sweetness
Unsalted Butter (melted)	4 tbsp	Binds the crust together

Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Cream Cheese (softened)	16 oz	Forms the creamy filling
Granulated Sugar	1/2 cup	Sweetens the cheesecake
Large Eggs	2	Binds the ingredients
Sour Cream	1/2 cup	Adds tang and creaminess
Heavy Cream	1/2 cup	Lightens the texture
Vanilla Bean (seeds)	1	Infuses rich vanilla flavor
Vanilla Extract	1 tsp	Enhances the overall flavor

Crème Brûlée Topping

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Granulated Sugar	1/4 cup	Caramelizes to create the crunchy toppin

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon to compact the crumbs.
4. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

3. Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in each cupcake liner, filling them about 3/4 full.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are set and the tops are slightly puffed.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

4. Add the Crème Brûlée Topping

1. Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each cupcake.
2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns a deep amber color. Allow the sugar to harden for a few minutes.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve these delightful Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes chilled and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness in every bite.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Even Layers: Use a cookie scoop for consistent portions of crust and filling.
• Torch Technique: Keep the kitchen torch moving to avoid burning the sugar topping.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cupcake
Calories	~250
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	20g
Protein	3g
Sugar	14g

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh berries for added flavor and color.
• As a Gift: Pack these cupcakes in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• For Parties: Serve on a tiered tray for an elegant presentation.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, these cupcakes can be made up to 2 days in advance. Add the crème brûlée topping just before serving for the best texture.

2. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can use the broiler setting on your oven to caramelize the sugar, but watch closely to prevent burning.

3. Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean?

Yes, but the flavor will be less intense. Increase the vanilla extract to 1 1/2 teaspoons.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, freeze the cupcakes without the crème brûlée topping. Thaw in the refrigerator and add the topping before serving.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

Conclusion: A Gourmet Dessert Made Easy

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and caramelized crème brûlée. With their elegant appearance and rich flavors, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Ready to elevate your baking game? Gather your ingredients and start creating your own batch of these delightful treats!

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