Oh, friends, let me tell you about a little slice of heaven that has taken my dessert game to the next level—Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars! If you’re a fan of that velvety, rich texture of cheesecake combined with the crunchy, caramelized topping of crème brûlée, then you’re going to love these bars. I still remember the first time I made them for a potluck. The kitchen smelled heavenly, and I almost didn’t want to share. But the moment my friends took that first bite, their eyes widened in delight, and the praise came pouring in. Those sweet memories, paired with this easy-to-make recipe, will make you want to dive right in.
These bars are not just an ordinary dessert; they’re a delightful way to impress your guests or treat yourself after a long week. The creamy cheesecake filling, buttery graham cracker crust, and that satisfying crunchy caramel topping are the trifecta of dessert happiness! So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
What’s in Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base of our crust that adds that delightful crunch. You can crush your own or pick up a box of pre-made crumbs—totally your call!
Unsalted Butter: The glue that holds our graham cracker goodness together. Make sure it’s melted to blend right into the crumbs like a warm hug.
Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness to elevate the crust. Trust me; we all need a little sugar in our lives.
Cream Cheese: The main player in the cheesecake filling—make sure it’s softened so that it blends smoothly; no one wants a lumpy cheesecake!
Heavy Cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of flavor that really brightens the cheesecake. If you’re feeling adventurous, vanilla bean paste can be a luxe touch, though the extract works perfectly!
Eggs: They’re vital for binding the filling and giving it that rich, custard-like texture we all adore.
Cornstarch: This little gem helps the cheesecake to set perfectly without cracking.
Granulated Sugar (for brûlée): This will be caramelized on top, so choose a good quality sugar to achieve that golden, crunchy topping!
Fresh Raspberries (optional): For a pop of color and fresh tang! Plus, they look stunning on your bars.
Is Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect. While this dessert might not exactly be health food, it certainly has its perks!
Cream Cheese: Packed with calcium, it brings some richness and flavor to your dessert, but make sure you enjoy in moderation since it’s also high in fat.
Fresh Raspberries: If you decide to garnish with these beauties, you’ll get a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. Plus, they add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake!
Remember to savor each delectable bite rather than guilting yourself over indulgence. Life is too short not to enjoy cheesecake bars, right?
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 24 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
– Fresh raspberries (for garnish)
*Serves: 12 bars*
How to Make Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the crust**: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. **Make the cheesecake filling**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Avoid overmixing—let’s keep things fluffy!
5. Incorporate the heavy cream and cornstarch, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. If you’re using it, add that luxurious vanilla bean paste now.
6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully chilled.
9. **Prepare the brûlée topping**: Once the cheesecake is chilled, sprinkle 1/2 cup granulated sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
10. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it is golden and bubbly, moving the torch in a circular motion to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can place it under a broiler in the oven for a few minutes—just keep a close eye!
11. Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden slightly.
12. Cut into bars and garnish with fresh raspberries before serving. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your decadent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars!
Tips and Variations for Your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars!
– Feel free to get creative with the topping! Instead of raspberries, you could use strawberries, blueberries, or even some crushed pistachios for a nutty crunch.
– If you don’t have a kitchen torch, that broiler method will work like a charm, just keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn (trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!).
– For a more intense flavor, you can use almond extract instead of vanilla; it adds a delightful twist to the bars.
After making these bars, I guarantee you will be the toast of any gathering! So roll up your sleeves, turn up that oven, and embrace the deliciousness of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars. When you try them, I’d love to hear about your experience—did they disappear as quickly as mine do? Enjoy baking!
