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Creme Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

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These creme brûlée cheesecake bars combine the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake with the crackly caramelized sugar top of classic creme brûlée. Easy to make and perfect for parties or special occasions, they deliver luxurious flavor in a hand-held treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 150g)
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (75g)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25g)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened (450g)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (60ml)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g) for topping

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar and a pinch of salt until completely smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended. Beat in heavy cream and vanilla extract until creamy.
  6. Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Smooth the top and tap the pan gently to remove bubbles.
  7. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 28-32 minutes, until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 3 hours (overnight preferred).
  8. Once chilled, remove bars from the pan. Pat the surface dry if needed. Sprinkle 1/4 cup sugar evenly over the top.
  9. Broil on high for 2-4 minutes, rotating as needed, until the sugar melts and caramelizes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes to harden the topping. Slice into 16 squares with a warm, sharp knife, cleaning between cuts.
  11. Serve chilled and enjoy the crackly sugar top!

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and eggs. Chill bars overnight for the creamiest texture. If you don’t have a broiler, a kitchen torch works for caramelizing the sugar. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible. For neat slices, use a hot, clean knife. The sugar topping may soften in the fridge; re-brûlée if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: creme brulee cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, creme brulee dessert, easy cheesecake, party dessert, caramelized sugar, broiler cheesecake, make ahead dessert

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creme-br-u-l-e-e-cheesecake-bars-easy-luxurious-dessert-recipe/