Decadent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the ultimate treat with these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars. This dessert harmoniously combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the satisfying crunch of a caramelized sugar topping, offering a modern twist on two beloved classics. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are as impressive as they are delicious.

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
• For the Brûlée Topping:
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir until the mixture has the consistency of wet sand.
3. Form the Crust: Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, ensuring an even layer.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

5. Blend the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
7. Add Flavor and Creaminess: Mix in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sour cream until fully combined and silky.

Bake the Cheesecake:

8. Pour and Smooth: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
10. Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Brûlée Topping:

11. Caramelize the Sugar: Just before serving, sprinkle 1/4 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
12. Torch the Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it caramelizes and turns golden brown, creating a crisp, glass-like topping. Allow the topping to harden for a few minutes.

Serve and Enjoy:

13. Slice and Serve: Cut the cheesecake into bars and serve immediately. Relish the delightful contrast between the creamy cheesecake and the crunchy caramelized sugar topping.

---

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Calories: 350 per serving
Servings: 16 bars

Enjoy these Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars as a sophisticated dessert that will impress your guests with its decadent flavors and textures!