Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to make, then these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are just the ticket! They beautifully combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of caramelized sugar on top. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy weeknight treat. I love how these little cupcakes impress everyone while being simple enough to whip up in your kitchen.
Imagine serving these at your next get-together or enjoying one after dinner with a cup of tea. The combination of flavors and textures makes them incredibly special, and I can’t wait for you to try them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these cupcakes ready in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesecake, and the fun topping makes it even more appealing.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a Tuesday, these cupcakes fit right in.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and chill until you’re ready to serve.
- Delicious Flavor: The infusion of vanilla bean elevates this dessert to gourmet status.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes use simple and wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of them on hand, making this recipe not only delicious but also accessible!
For the Crust:
- 1 cup grachicken chicken ham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Variations
This recipe is flexible and can be tailored to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations you might consider:
- Add a Fruit Twist: Mix in fresh berries or fruit puree into the cheesecake batter for added flavor.
- Change the Flavor Profile: Swap out vanilla bean for almond extract or lemon zest for a refreshing change.
- Go Chocolatey: Fold in some cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate version that’s just as delightful.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Instead of caramelizing sugar, top with whipped coconut cream for a lighter finish.
How to Make Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Tin
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). It’s important to get your oven ready early so that it’s nice and hot when you start baking. Line a standard muffin tin with cupcake liners to make removing the cupcakes easy once they’re done.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a small bowl, combine your grachicken chicken ham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mixing these together creates a lovely base that adds both texture and flavor. Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. This will form an even layer that holds everything together beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it ensures there are no lumps. Add each egg one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stirring in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla extract brings all those delightful flavors together.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Carefully divide the cheesecake batter evenly among your prepared liners—fill each about 3/4 full for perfect rising. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until their centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Letting them cool at room temperature helps set their texture beautifully.
Step 5: Chill
After cooling to room temperature, refrigerate these little gems for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows them to firm up nicely and enhances their flavor.
Step 6: Add the Crème Brûlée Topping
Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar over each chilled cupcake. Using a kitchen torch carefully caramelizes this sugar until it forms that iconic crisp golden crust—this is where all the magic happens! Let it cool for an additional 1–2 minutes before indulging.
Enjoy making these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes! They’re bound to be a hit wherever you serve them!
Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients
Creating the perfect Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients is a delightful journey, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your dessert game!
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality cream cheese and fresh vanilla beans makes a significant difference in flavor. The richness of good ingredients enhances the overall taste of your cheesecake.
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Don’t Overmix: When incorporating eggs into your batter, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air, which may cause cracks in your cheesecake during baking.
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Cool Slowly: After baking, allow your cheesecakes to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps prevent cracks and maintains a smooth texture.
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Chill Thoroughly: Be patient and let your cupcakes chill for at least 2 hours (or longer) before adding the crème brûlée topping. This ensures they are perfectly set and ready for that satisfying crunch.
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Use a Torch Carefully: When caramelizing the sugar topping, move the torch quickly and evenly across the surface to avoid burning. A well-caramelized top should be golden brown and crispy—just what you want for that delightful contrast with the creamy filling!
How to Serve Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients
Serving your Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this decadent treat beautifully.
Garnishes
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Fresh Berries: Adding a few ripe strawberries or raspberries on top not only looks stunning but also provides a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the crème brûlée.
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Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint on the side adds a pop of color and an aromatic hint that brightens up each bite.
Side Dishes
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the richness of your cheesecake cupcakes. It provides a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for cutting through the creaminess.
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Whipped Coconut Cream: For an added layer of indulgence, serve your cupcakes with whipped coconut cream. It’s dairy-free and has a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the flavors of vanilla.
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Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on the plate or directly onto each cupcake for an elegant touch. The bitterness of dark chocolate enhances the sweet notes in your dessert.
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Coffee or Espresso: Serving your Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients alongside a cup of rich coffee or espresso creates a delightful experience. The warmth and robust flavors balance out the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with your deliciously crafted Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients! Enjoy every moment as you share this delightful dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make these delightful treats in advance and have them ready to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They can be kept for up to 3 days, but the crème brûlée topping is best added just before serving for optimal texture.
Freezing
- To freeze, place the cooled cupcakes (without the topping) in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture of the cheesecake.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!
What is Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients?
Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients refers to a luscious dessert that combines rich cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
How do I make Vanilla Bean Crème BrûlIngredients without a kitchen torch?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the sugar-topped cupcakes under a broiler for just a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
Can I use other flavors instead of vanilla bean?
Absolutely! You can experiment with chocolate, caramel, or fruit flavors by using flavored extracts or purees mixed into your cheesecake filling.
How do I achieve the perfect crème brûlée topping?
For the best results, ensure that your sugar is evenly distributed over the top and use even strokes when caramelizing. This will help create that perfect crisp crust we all love!
Is there an alternative for heavy cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk blended with a little cornstarch for thickness.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes recipe becomes one of your favorites! The creamy filling combined with that satisfying crack of caramelized sugar creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Enjoy making these little delights and feel free to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!
Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes
Indulge in the luxurious delight of Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes, where the creamy richness of cheesecake meets the satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar. This elegant dessert is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With a hint of vanilla bean elevating the flavor profile, these cupcakes are sure to impress your guests while being simple enough to whip up at home. Serve them chilled for a refreshing treat that combines decadent taste with delightful texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into the bottom of each liner.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth; add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla.
- Fill each liner with cheesecake batter about three-quarters full and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Let cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize using a kitchen torch for that classic crème brûlée finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg