Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Have you ever wished you could enjoy the creamy luxury of crème brûlée and the rich, tangy flavor of cheesecake in a single, irresistible bite? What if you could do it in an easy-to-share bar form—no ramekins or water baths required? Enter Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars, the show-stopping dessert that combines two beloved classics into one jaw-dropping treat. Searches for “cheesecake bars” and “crème brûlée recipes” have risen by over 30% in the last two years, as home bakers seek both elegance and convenience. This recipe delivers the signature crackly sugar top and velvety center of crème brûlée, plus the creamy tang and sturdy crust of cheesecake bars—all in less than half the effort of traditional versions. Let’s discover what makes these bars a must-bake for your next gathering or sweet craving.

Ingredients List

The beauty of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars is found in their simple, high-impact ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups (about 12 sheets)
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup
• Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese: 16 ounces (2 blocks), softened
• Sour Cream: 1/2 cup (for extra silkiness)
• Granulated Sugar: 2/3 cup
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Brûlée Topping:

• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (for caramelizing)

Substitutions & Add-Ins:

• Use shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for the crust.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added protein.
• Add a pinch of lemon zest for a citrusy note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy removal.
• In a bowl, combine graham crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
• Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
• Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated (do not overbeat).
• Pour filling over cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Bake

• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
• Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is best).

Step 4: Brûlée the Topping

• Remove chilled bars from pan and slice into squares.
• Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each bar.
• Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. (Alternatively, place bars under a broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.)

Step 5: Serve

• Allow the sugar topping to harden (2–3 minutes), then serve and enjoy the satisfying crackle with every bite!

Tip: Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown per bar (1/16 of the recipe):

Nutrient	Per Bar
Calories	210
Carbohydrates	23g
Sugar	16g
Fat	12g
Protein	3g
Sodium	130mg

Values may vary by ingredient choices.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten up your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars?

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
• Swap half the sugar for a zero-calorie sweetener.
• Try a nut crust (almond or pecan meal) for gluten-free and lower carb.
• Use coconut sugar for a deeper caramel flavor and lower glycemic index.
• Add pureed berries to the filling for a fruity twist with less fat.

Serving Suggestions

Make your bars extra special with these ideas:

• Berry Garnish: Top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
• Drizzle: Add a touch of salted caramel or chocolate sauce.
• Mini Dessert Board: Pair with fruit, cookies, and espresso for a chic presentation.
• Brunch Treat: Serve with coffee, mimosas, or iced matcha.

Personal Tip: For parties, cut bars into bite-sized squares and serve in mini cupcake liners for easy sharing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Filling: Incorporates air, leading to cracks—mix just until smooth.
• Skipping Chill Time: Bars need time to set for clean slices.
• Too Much Sugar on Top: A thin, even layer caramelizes best; thick layers can burn or turn gummy.
• Broiler Burns: If using a broiler instead of a torch, watch constantly to avoid burning.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze (without brûlée topping) for up to 2 months; add sugar and torch after thawing.
• Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days ahead and brûlée just before serving for maximum crispness.

Pro Tip: Place parchment between layers if stacking bars.

Conclusion

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars combine the best of two classic desserts—crackly caramelized sugar and rich, creamy cheesecake—in an easy-to-share bar. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and gourmet results, this recipe is perfect for entertaining or anytime you crave a sweet treat. Try it yourself, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more creative dessert inspiration!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these without a torch?

Yes! Just use your oven broiler, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely—use gluten-free cookies or almond meal for the crust.

Q3: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes.