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#### **1. Prepare the Crust:**
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
Next, press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to firmly pack the crumbs down. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
#### **2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and sour cream, and mix until fully combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated. After adding the eggs, pour in the heavy cream and continue to mix until smooth.
Once the filling is ready, pour it over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
#### **3. Bake the Cheesecake:**
Carefully place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but set, and the edges should be lightly browned. If the cheesecake is browning too quickly, you can cover the top loosely with aluminum foil.
Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracks from forming. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set.
#### **4. Prepare the Crème Brûlée Topping:**
Once the cheesecake has chilled and is ready to serve, it’s time for the signature crème brûlée topping.
Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the cheesecake. Make sure the sugar covers the entire surface. Using a kitchen torch, carefully heat the sugar until it melts and caramelizes, forming a crisp, golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecake under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes—just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
#### **5. Serve and Enjoy:**
Allow the sugar topping to cool and harden for a few minutes before slicing the cheesecake. The perfect crème brûlée topping should crack when you insert your fork, revealing the creamy, smooth cheesecake beneath.
### **Tips for a Perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake:**
– **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Be sure to use softened cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to ensure a smooth and lump-free filling. This will help create that creamy, velvety texture that makes cheesecake so irresistible.
– **Avoid Overbaking:** Overbaking the cheesecake can result in a dry texture. Bake it just until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
– **Chill Overnight:** For the best results, let the cheesecake chill overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld together and helps the cheesecake set perfectly.
– **Perfectly Caramelized Sugar:** When torching the sugar, use a steady hand and keep the flame moving to achieve an even caramelization. If you’re using the oven broiler, be sure to keep an eye on the sugar to avoid burning it.
### **Why Crème Brûlée Cheesecake is the Ultimate Dessert:**
This crème brûlée cheesecake offers the best of both worlds—an ultra-creamy cheesecake filling paired with a satisfying, crunchy caramelized sugar top. It’s a dessert that feels elegant and indulgent, perfect for impressing your guests at a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special.
The combination of textures—the creamy smoothness of the cheesecake, the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust, and the crispy, golden brûléed sugar—creates an experience that’s both comforting and luxurious.
This dessert is perfect for those who love both cheesecake and crème brûlée, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
### **Conclusion:**
If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that combines two beloved classics, the **Crème Brûlée Cheesecake** is the answer. With its rich, creamy filling, buttery crust, and crispy caramelized topping, it’s the kind of dessert that will make any occasion feel like a celebration. Whether you’re serving it for a special event or enjoying it as a treat for yourself, this dessert is sure to delight every time. Try it out, and enjoy the blissful union of two irresistible desserts!
