Petite Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Recipe

Silky Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes Recipe for Sweet Moments

Creamy mini creme brulee cheesecakes blend two beloved desserts into an irresistible treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Delicate individual portions promise a sophisticated twist on classic favorites.

Silky smooth textures meet caramelized sugar tops in these elegant little delights.

Perfectly portioned for intimate gatherings or personal indulgence, these miniature desserts capture decadence in every bite.

Rich cream cheese mingles with delicate custard notes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Cracking through the crisp caramel shell reveals a luxurious creamy center that melts effortlessly on your palate.

Prepare to impress with this show-stopping dessert that promises pure culinary magic.

FAQs for Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

  • Can I make this recipe without a kitchen torch?

Yes, you can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. Place the mini cheesecakes 3-4 inches from the broiler and watch carefully to prevent burning.

  • How do I know if my cheesecakes are properly baked?

Look for set edges and a slightly jiggly center. The cheesecakes should not appear liquid or overly wet when gently shaken.

  • What if my custard and cheesecake mixture don't marble perfectly?

Don’t worry! Slight variations in swirling create unique patterns. The taste remains delicious regardless of the visual effect.

  • Can I use low-fat ingredients in this recipe?

While possible, full-fat cream cheese and dairy products provide the best texture and richness for these mini cheesecakes.

Why Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Are So Irresistible

  • Create Stunning Mini Desserts: Impress guests with elegant, individually portioned cheesecakes that look professionally crafted.
  • Master Two-in-One Flavor Fusion: Enjoy the creamy richness of cheesecake combined with the classic crème brûlée caramelized sugar topping in one delightful bite.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: Prepare these show-stopping desserts ahead of time, making them ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, and special gatherings where presentation matters.
  • Customize with Ease: Experiment with different toppings like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream to personalize these miniature treats to your taste.

Ingredients That Make Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Shine

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the mini cheesecakes.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, cohesive crust.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and helps the crust hold together.
Cheesecake Base Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its signature creamy and tangy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake mixture.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tangy flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.
Custard and Topping Ingredients:
  • Egg Yolks: Create a rich and smooth custard base.
  • Heavy Cream, Milk: Contribute to the creamy and luxurious texture of the custard.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
  • Granulated Sugar: Used for the caramelized topping, creating a crisp and sweet crust.

How to Bake Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Easily

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, ensuring they sit smoothly for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Crunchy Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Melt butter and combine with:
  • Cracker crumbs
  • Brown sugar

Mix until the mixture looks like wet sand.

Step 3: Form Crust Layer

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner, creating a compact and even base.

Step 4: Whip Cream Cheese Mixture

Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, mixing until fully integrated.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Cream

Add eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition. Fold in:
  • Sour cream
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture becomes uniform and silky.

Step 6: Develop Custard Base

Whisk egg yolks with:
  • Heavy cream
  • Milk
  • Salt

Blend until completely smooth and slightly frothy.

Step 7: Fill Cupcake Liners

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust, filling each liner about 3/4 full.

Step 8: Create Marbled Effect

Swirl the custard base lightly into the cheesecake mixture, creating delicate marbled patterns.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-22 minutes, until edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.

Step 10: Cool and Chill

Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 11: Prepare Sugar Topping

Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly across the top of each mini cheesecake.

Step 12: Caramelize Sugar

Use a kitchen torch to transform the sugar into a golden brown, crisp glassy surface.

Step 13: Serve Immediately

Serve right after caramelizing to maintain the crunchy sugar topping.

Tips for a Perfect Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecake

  • Prevent Cracking Crust: Press graham cracker mixture gently but firmly to avoid air pockets that can cause uneven baking and crumbling.
  • Smooth Cream Cheese Blend: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature and beat thoroughly to eliminate lumps, creating a silky-smooth cheesecake texture.
  • Swirl with Precision: Use a toothpick or small knife to create delicate marbled patterns when incorporating custard, avoiding overmixing that can muddle the design.
  • Master the Torch Technique: Hold kitchen torch at a slight angle, moving continuously to caramelize sugar evenly without burning, creating a perfect golden-brown crust.
  • Chill for Perfect Set: Refrigerate mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours to allow complete setting and enhance flavor development.

Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes With a Twist

  • Chocolate Marble Medley: Replace half the vanilla extract with melted dark chocolate, creating rich swirls throughout the cheesecake filling for a decadent chocolate experience.
  • Berry Burst Edition: Fold fresh raspberries or blueberries into the cheesecake mixture before baking, adding vibrant fruit bursts and natural sweetness to each mini dessert.
  • Salted Caramel Crunch: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the completed mini cheesecakes, then sprinkle crushed pecans on top for a luxurious textural contrast.
  • Espresso Dream: Mix instant espresso powder into the custard base, providing a robust coffee undertone that complements the creamy cheesecake perfectly.

Tasty Pairings for Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

  • Pair Luxurious Dessert Wines: Select late-harvest Riesling or Sauternes to complement the rich, creamy texture of the mini creme brulee cheesecakes. These sweet wines balance the dessert's decadence with their honeyed notes and subtle acidity.
  • Enhance with Fresh Berries: Garnish the cheesecakes with fresh raspberries or strawberries. The bright, tart fruit cuts through the richness and provides a refreshing contrast to the caramelized sugar and creamy filling.
  • Match with Sparkling Champagne: Choose a dry champagne or prosecco to cleanse the palate between bites. The bubbles and crisp acidity perfectly offset the dessert's sweet, smooth profile and add an elegant touch to the presentation.
  • Create Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a smooth espresso or cappuccino.

How to Store Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

  • Store mini creme brulee cheesecakes in a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the delicate texture and flavor.
  • Place sheets of parchment paper between each cheesecake to prevent sticking and maintain their pristine appearance during storage.
  • Keep these delicate desserts in the coldest part of the refrigerator, maintaining a consistent temperature between 35-40°F to preserve their creamy consistency and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Enjoy the mini cheesecakes within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture, as the graham cracker crust may become soggy and the custard can lose its smooth quality over time.
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Petite Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Recipe

Petite Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 52 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Delicate mini creme brulee cheesecakes offer a luxurious French-inspired dessert that marries creamy cheesecake with classic caramelized sugar. Elegant individual portions promise a sophisticated sweet experience you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Custard Base:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Topping and Crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelized topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, ensuring a smooth surface for easy removal.
  2. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs, then melt butter and mix thoroughly with cracker crumbs and brown sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner, creating a compact and even crust layer.
  4. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating granulated sugar until fully integrated.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition, then fold in sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform and silky.
  6. Prepare the custard base by whisking egg yolks with heavy cream, milk, and salt until completely blended and slightly frothy.
  7. Gently pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
  8. Carefully incorporate the custard base by swirling it lightly into the cheesecake mixture, creating delicate marbled patterns.
  9. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
  10. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  11. Before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly across the top of each mini cheesecake.
  12. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and creates a crisp, glassy surface.
  13. Serve immediately after caramelizing to maintain the crunchy sugar topping.

Notes

  • Crumb Crust Tip: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to prevent crumbly or uneven base that might fall apart when serving.
  • Cream Cheese Technique: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature and beat until ultra-smooth to eliminate lumps and create silky texture.
  • Custard Swirling Trick: Swirl custard gently to create beautiful marbled effect without fully mixing, preserving distinct flavor layers.
  • Caramelization Hack: Hold kitchen torch 2-3 inches from surface and move constantly to avoid burning sugar, achieving perfect golden-brown crust.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 353
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 162 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 102 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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