Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

Name: Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the luxurious combination of cheesecake and crème brûlée in a cupcake form, topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:06:37.846Z

This Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcake recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the satisfying crunch of a caramelized topping. Perfect for any celebration or a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes are sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Decadent combination of cheesecake and crème brûlée flavors
Individual servings for easy sharing and enjoyment
The satisfying crack of caramelized sugar on top

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are an ideal dessert for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a simple family dinner, these cupcakes elevate any event. Their individual servings make them perfect for sharing, and their luxurious flavors are sure to impress your guests. You'll find that they are not only visually stunning but also a delightful treat that combines two beloved desserts into one.

These cupcakes are versatile and can be easily customized to fit different themes or seasons. For example, you could add seasonal fruits like berries or a sprinkle of festive spices to the cheesecake batter for a seasonal twist. This adaptability allows you to enjoy them year-round, making them a staple in your dessert repertoire.

The Art of Caramelization

One of the standout features of these cupcakes is the caramelized sugar topping, which adds a satisfying texture and a rich flavor profile. Caramelizing sugar requires a bit of practice, but with the right technique, you’ll achieve that perfect crack when you bite into the cupcake. Using a kitchen torch gives you control over the caramelization process, allowing you to achieve a golden-brown crust that enhances the overall dessert experience.

To ensure the best results, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar on top of each cupcake. Avoid using too much sugar, as this can result in an overly thick crust that is difficult to crack. The goal is to create a delicate shell that beautifully contrasts with the creamy cheesecake beneath. With a little patience and practice, you will master this delicious technique!

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to caramelize the sugar topping just before serving, as this ensures that the crust remains crisp and enjoyable.

When it comes to serving, these cupcakes shine when presented on a beautiful platter. You can add fresh berries or mint leaves as a garnish to enhance their visual appeal. Pair them with a light dessert wine or coffee for a complete experience that your guests will talk about long after the last bite.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
1/4 tsp salt

For the Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing
1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth mixing.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner.

Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs, vanilla bean paste, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in each cupcake liner, filling them about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake the cupcakes for 20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly jiggly.

Cool and Refrigerate

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.

Caramelize the Sugar

Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each cupcake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.

Serve

Enjoy your Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes chilled, with the satisfying crack of the caramelized sugar topping!

For best results, use a kitchen torch for caramelizing the sugar. If you don’t have one, you can place the cupcakes under a broiler for a few seconds, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cupcakes in advance? Yes, you can prepare these cupcakes a day ahead of time. Just make sure to caramelize the sugar topping just before serving to maintain its crispness.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch? If you don’t have access to a kitchen torch, you can place the cupcakes under a broiler for a few seconds to caramelize the sugar. However, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by incorporating fruit purees or flavored extracts into the cheesecake batter. For instance, adding a touch of raspberry puree can create a delightful contrast to the rich vanilla flavor.

You can also switch up the graham cracker crust with crushed cookies like Oreos or gingersnaps for a unique twist. Each variation offers a new flavor profile that can easily change the character of these delicious cupcakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cupcakes a day ahead without caramelizing the sugar. Just add the sugar topping right before serving.

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

You can place the cupcakes under a broiler for a few seconds to caramelize the sugar, but be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake cupcakes without the sugar topping. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving and then caramelize the sugar.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.