Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

Introduction:

Embark on a culinary journey to create a sophisticated Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, perfect for impressing at any gathering or enjoying a luxurious treat at home.

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla, and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in sour cream.
   • Pour the filling over the crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the cheesecake for 50-55 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an hour with the door slightly open.
4. Chill:
   • Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. Add the Brûlée Topping:
   • Just before serving, sprinkle the top of the cheesecake evenly with sugar. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a hard, shiny crust.

Conclusion:

The result is a stunning Crème Brûlée Cheesecake with a luxuriously smooth filling and a mesmerizingly caramelized top. This dessert not only tastes divine but also provides a delightful contrast in textures from the crisp sugar shell to the creamy cheesecake below.