Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

Name: Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful fusion of two beloved desserts with these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes. Creamy cheesecake meets the rich, caramelized top of a classic crème brûlée, creating bite-sized treats that are perfect for any occasion. These elegant mini cheesecakes are easy to make and sure to impress your guests, bringing a touch of sophistication to your dessert table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-25T11:56:28.365Z

These Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes combine the best of both worlds, offering a creamy cheesecake filling that rests beneath a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. Each bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making them a standout dessert for any gathering.

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are an ideal choice for a variety of gatherings, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. Their bite-sized form makes them easy to serve and enjoy, allowing guests to indulge without feeling overwhelmed by a heavy dessert. They combine two favorite flavors in one delightful treat, ensuring that everyone will be satisfied.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday dinner, or simply treating yourself, these mini cheesecakes adapt beautifully to any occasion. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, giving you more freedom to enjoy your gatherings rather than scrambling in the kitchen at the last minute.

A Twist on the Classic

The combination of creamy cheesecake and the iconic crunchy topping of crème brûlée is a delectable twist that elevates this dessert beyond the ordinary. While both desserts are beloved on their own, merging their elements creates a unique flavor profile that’s creamy, sweet, and slightly caramelized. It's a delightful surprise for any dessert lover.

What sets these mini cheesecakes apart is not only their rich taste but also their visually appealing presentation. The golden caramelized sugar on top contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake underneath, making them as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Easy to Make, Impressive to Serve

One of the best aspects of these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes is their simplicity in preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up an extraordinary dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. This is particularly beneficial for those who want to impress guests without extensive baking experience.

Additionally, the use of a kitchen torch for caramelizing the sugar adds an interactive element, turning dessert preparation into an enjoyable activity. It's a perfect opportunity to bring family or friends together, allowing them to participate in the final touches before serving.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.

Prepare Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla, sour cream, and mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Finally, add flour and mix until just combined.

Bake

Spoon the cheesecake mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly.

Cool

Remove from the oven and let them cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Caramelize the Top

Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and forms a hard crust.

Let the caramelized topping cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Insights

The key to a luscious cheesecake lies in selecting high-quality cream cheese. Opting for full-fat cream cheese ensures a rich and creamy texture, contributing to the overall indulgence of your mini cheesecakes. Sour cream adds a slight tang and enhances the flavor, making it an essential ingredient for balancing the sweetness.

Granulated sugar, used for caramelizing, should be evenly distributed on top of the cheesecakes for best results. This will help achieve that signature hard crust, allowing each bite to offer a satisfying crunch followed by a creamy cheesecake experience.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, these mini cheesecakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a convenient option for meal prep or last-minute dessert cravings. Just be sure to wait until you're ready to serve before caramelizing the sugar on top to maintain its crisp texture.

For an added touch, consider pairing the cheesecakes with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This can enhance their visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor, taking your dessert to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheesecakes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just add the caramel topping right before serving.

→ What if I don't have a kitchen torch?

You can use the broiler in your oven. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.