✔ Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
✔ Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
✔ Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
✔ Set aside to cool.
✅ This makes a firm, buttery crust that holds the creamy filling perfectly!
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling
✔ In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
✔ Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
✔ Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
✅ Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in the cheesecake!
3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake (Water Bath Method)
✔ Pour batter over the cooled crust.
✔ Wrap the bottom of the pan tightly with foil and place in a large baking dish.
✔ Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.
✔ Bake for 55-65 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
✔ Turn off the oven and let cheesecake sit for 1 hour with the door slightly open.
✅ The water bath prevents cracking and ensures a smooth, creamy texture!
4️⃣ Chill & Caramelize the Sugar
✔ Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
✔ Sprinkle granulated & brown sugar evenly over the top.
✔ Use a kitchen torch to melt the sugar until golden brown and crispy.
✅ For an oven method, broil on high for 1-2 minutes—watch closely!
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Let the caramelized topping cool for 5 minutes.
✔ Slice and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream.
✅ Every bite is a perfect balance of crunchy caramel and creamy cheesecake!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Chocolate Crème Brûlée Cheesecake – Add ½ cup melted white or dark chocolate to the filling. 🍫
🔹 Salted Caramel Version – Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce & sea salt. 🧂🍮
🔹 Espresso Cheesecake – Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder for a coffee twist. ☕
🔹 Berry Infused – Swirl in raspberry or strawberry puree before baking. 🍓
🥡 Storage & Tips
✔ Store in the fridge for up to 5 days (covered).
✔ Freeze slices for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before serving.
✔ For best results, caramelize the sugar just before serving!
✅ A must-try for special occasions or when you crave a fancy treat!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Crème Brûlée Cheesecake!
This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is luxurious, creamy, and absolutely irresistible—a true combination of two beloved desserts. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or whenever you want a decadent treat!
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know how it turns out! 🍮🍰
