These Elegant Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are a sophisticated take on two beloved desserts: creamy cheesecake and classic crème brûlée. With their velvety texture and signature caramelized sugar topping, these individual treats are perfect for dinner parties, celebrations, or an indulgent personal dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cupcakes offer all the indulgence of a cheesecake with the charm and elegance of crème brûlée. They’re portioned individually, making them easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. The smooth, rich filling is infused with vanilla for a classic flavor, while the crackly caramelized sugar topping adds a dramatic finishing touch.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcakes:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Topping:

Granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a silky batter.
Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Evenly divide the mixture among the prepared cupcake liners.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the centers are set and no longer jiggly.
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.
Before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each cupcake.
Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. Serve immediately for the best contrast in textures.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10 to 12 cheesecake cupcakes.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Variations

Vanilla Bean Upgrade: Use seeds from a real vanilla bean or vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla flavor.
Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note.
Chocolate Crust: Add a chocolate cookie base (crushed cookies with melted butter) for added richness.
Berry Garnish: Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries before serving for a touch of color and tartness.
Espresso Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a subtle coffee flavor.

storage/reheating

Store the cheesecake cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do not caramelize the sugar topping until just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
These cupcakes can also be frozen without the sugar topping for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating is not recommended as these are meant to be served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day or two in advance. Caramelize the sugar just before serving for best results.

Do I need a kitchen torch to make the topping?

A torch gives the best results, but you can use a broiler briefly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I add a crust to the cupcakes?

Yes, a simple graham cracker or cookie crust pressed into the bottom of each liner adds texture.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat, block-style cream cheese is best for the creamiest texture.

Why did my cupcakes crack?

Overbaking or mixing the batter too vigorously can cause cracking. Bake just until set and mix gently.

Can I flavor these with something other than vanilla?

Yes, try almond extract, citrus zest, or a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or amaretto.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

The centers should be just set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken.

Can I use flavored sugar for caramelizing?

Yes, flavored sugars like vanilla or citrus sugar can enhance the topping.

How long do the caramelized tops stay crisp?

The sugar topping is best enjoyed within a couple of hours of caramelizing as it may soften over time.

Can I use silicone muffin liners?

Paper liners work best for easy release. Silicone liners may retain moisture and affect texture.

Conclusion

Elegant Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the dramatic, caramelized finish of crème brûlée. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these individual desserts strike the perfect balance of elegance and ease. Make them ahead, torch them fresh, and enjoy the perfect bite every time.

Elegant Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking + Caramelizing
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Elegant Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes blend the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake with the crisp, caramelized topping of classic crème brûlée. Baked in individual portions, they’re perfect for sophisticated entertaining or a luxurious personal treat.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

Additional granulated sugar for caramelizing (about 1 teaspoon per cupcake)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the batter evenly into prepared cupcake liners (about ¾ full).
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until set and slightly golden on top.
Allow cupcakes to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled.
Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of sugar on top of each cupcake and caramelize using a kitchen torch until golden and crisp.
Serve chilled and enjoy the contrast of silky cheesecake with a crunchy brûléed top!

Notes

Use vanilla bean paste for a more intense, speckled vanilla flavor.
Best when chilled for several hours or overnight.
A broiler can be used in place of a kitchen torch (watch closely!).