✔ 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.
✔ Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
✅ Baking the crust first keeps it crisp and firm!
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling
✔ In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
✔ Add eggs, one at a time, mixing gently.
✔ Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, cornstarch, and salt until combined.
✔ Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
✅ Don’t overmix—this keeps the cheesecake creamy!
3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake (Water Bath Method)
✔ Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in foil to prevent leaks.
✔ Place the cheesecake in a large roasting pan.
✔ Fill the pan with hot water (about 1 inch deep).
✔ Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes (edges should be set, but the center slightly jiggles).
✔ Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
✅ The water bath prevents cracks & keeps the texture silky smooth!
4️⃣ Chill & Set
✔ Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
✔ This helps the flavors develop and the texture firm up!
✅ A fully chilled cheesecake makes the brûlée topping easier to caramelize!
5️⃣ Create the Caramelized Sugar Topping
✔ Sprinkle ¼ cup granulated sugar evenly over the cheesecake.
✔ Use a kitchen torch to melt the sugar until golden brown and crisp.
✔ Let it cool for a minute to harden before slicing.
✅ No torch? Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning!
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
✔ Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
✅ Each bite is a perfect mix of creamy cheesecake and crispy caramelized sugar!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Chocolate Crème Brûlée Cheesecake – Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the batter. 🍫
🔹 Espresso Crème Brûlée Cheesecake – Mix in 1 tablespoon instant coffee for a rich coffee flavor. ☕
🔹 Salted Caramel Cheesecake – Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top. 🍯
🔹 Fruit-Infused Version – Add lemon zest or raspberry puree for a fruity twist! 🍋🍓
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store in the fridge for up to 4 days (covered).
✔ Do not freeze the brûlée topping—the caramelized sugar will soften.
✔ For a fresh crunch, torch the sugar topping just before serving!
✅ Enjoy chilled for the perfect texture & flavor!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Crème Brûlée Cheesecake!
This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is luxurious, creamy, and topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust—a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or date nights!
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know your favorite cheesecake toppings! 🍮🍰
