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Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

5 from 70 reviews

These Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the caramelized sugar topping of a creme brulee, all in a convenient cupcake form. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a signature brûléed sugar crust, these individual desserts are perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin liner to form the crust. Bake for 5 minutes to set.
  3. Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time followed by the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is fully combined and smooth.
  4. Fill and Bake: Pour the cream cheese batter evenly over the baked crusts in each liner. Bake the cupcakes for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the centers are just set but still have a slight jiggle.
  5. Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up fully.
  6. Caramelize the Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the tops of each cupcake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it is golden brown and crisp, creating the classic creme brulee crust. Serve immediately for the perfect contrast of creamy and crunchy textures.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smooth batter.
  • Do not overbake; the centers should still have a slight jiggle to ensure creamy texture.
  • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can broil the cupcakes in the oven for 1-2 minutes while watching closely.
  • Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
  • To make crust sturdier, press crumb mixture firmly and chill briefly before baking.

Keywords: Creme Brulee Cheesecake, Cheesecake Cupcakes, Graham Cracker Crust, Caramelized Sugar Topping, Individual Cheesecake Desserts