Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Creamy, decadent, and just the right size to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulgence, these Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes are a dreamy dessert fusion. With a velvety cheesecake base and a crisp caramelized sugar top, each bite is a delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy.

Perfect for parties, date nights, or a solo indulgence, these minis capture the elegance of classic creme brulee with the richness of cheesecake—all in a perfectly portioned treat. Plus, no water bath needed!

---

What Kind of Crust Works Best for Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes?

A buttery graham cracker crust is classic and reliable, but for an extra indulgent touch, try vanilla wafer crumbs or shortbread. The slight sweetness and delicate texture pair beautifully with the custard-like cheesecake filling and caramelized top.

---

Ingredients for the Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)

---

How To Make the Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each lined muffin cup. Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then blend in sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until fully combined.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Spoon the cheesecake batter over the crusts in each muffin cup, filling nearly to the top. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until set. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Caramelize the Sugar Topping

Before serving, sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of each cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. Let sit 1-2 minutes to harden.

---

Serving and Storing Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes

Serve chilled for the best contrast between creamy filling and crisp sugar top. They make an elegant addition to any dessert table or afternoon tea spread.

To store, place cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Caramelize the sugar topping just before serving for optimal texture.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cheesecakes are fully baked?

They should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center. Don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Can I use a broiler if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

Yes, but watch closely to avoid melting the cheesecake. Chill well beforehand and broil just until the sugar is golden.

Can these be frozen?

You can freeze them (without the sugar topping) for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and torch the topping just before serving.

What other crusts work well?

Shortbread or vanilla wafer crumbs are great alternatives to graham crackers.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the cheesecakes a day or two in advance, then brulee the tops right before serving.

---

Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Mini Creme Brulee Cheesecakes, you’ll probably enjoy these other rich and creative cheesecake treats:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a fruity chocolate indulgence.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars with a cinnamon sugar crust and flaky pastry layers.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a brunch-worthy twist on cheesecake-inspired flavor.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized treats with rich nutty notes.
• Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies when you’re craving creamy, crispy, chocolatey fun.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you torch the tops or broil them? Try any fun crust variations?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

More of my daily sweet creations are shared on Pinterest @NinaDishes

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?