Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Crème brûlée and cheesecake are two of the most beloved desserts in the world. Imagine combining the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée, all in a convenient, easy-to-eat bar form. These Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are an elegant and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Why Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?

These bars are the perfect dessert for when you want something a little more sophisticated but still comforting and familiar. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect foundation for a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, which is then topped with a layer of crisp, caramelized sugar. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy topping.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full graham crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, and beat until smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

1. Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.

Step 4: Create the Crème Brûlée Topping

1. Once the cheesecake bars are fully chilled, remove them from the refrigerator.
2. Sprinkle the granulated sugar and brown sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
3. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt and caramelize the sugar. Move the torch in small circles over the surface until the sugar is bubbly and turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
   • Alternative Method: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the bars under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. Let the caramelized sugar topping cool for a few minutes to harden before slicing the bars.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Once the sugar topping has hardened, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish.
2. Transfer to a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles.
3. Serve immediately for the best texture, or store the bars in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

• Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Torch Technique: When using the kitchen torch, keep it moving constantly to avoid burning the sugar in one spot.

Final Thoughts

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of two classic desserts. With a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling and a crunchy, caramelized sugar topping, these bars are the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party, a holiday gathering, or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy every decadent bite!