Description
These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are a decadent twist on a classic dessert. With creamy vanilla bean cheesecake centers, buttery graham crusts, and caramelized sugar tops, they’re ideal for any sweet craving. Perfect as a quick breakfast treat, elegant party dessert, or addition to your holiday baking. If you’re looking for easy dessert ideas, brunch sweets, or mini cheesecake recipes with a wow factor—this one delivers.
Ingredients
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or seeds from 1 vanilla bean
2 tablespoons heavy cream
extra granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into each liner and bake for 5 minutes.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and mix until fluffy.
4. Mix in sour cream, eggs, vanilla bean paste, and heavy cream until fully combined.
5. Divide batter evenly over the crusts and tap the pan to remove air bubbles.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until centers are just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, sprinkle each cupcake with about 1 teaspoon of sugar.
8. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize sugar until golden and crisp. Let sit for 1 minute before serving.
Notes
Use real vanilla bean or paste for authentic flavor and visible flecks.
Chill thoroughly before torching the sugar topping to prevent melting.
Move the kitchen torch in slow circles to caramelize evenly without burning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: vanilla bean cheesecake cupcakes, mini cheesecake recipe, creme brulee cupcakes, easy dessert, party dessert, brunch dessert, holiday baking, food ideas