Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes: A Luxurious Dessert Delight

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes combine two classic desserts into one elegant and irresistible treat.

These cupcakes feature a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling infused with aromatic vanilla bean, topped with a golden, crackling caramelized sugar crust reminiscent of crème brûlée.

Table of Contents

Perfect for weeknight desserts, dinner parties, or special occasions, they offer rich flavors and textures in perfectly portioned servings.

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

• Combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the crisp sugar top of crème brûlée
• Uses real vanilla bean for unmatched depth and aroma
• Individual-sized cupcakes make serving easy and elegant
• Can be prepared ahead and stored or frozen for convenience
• Customizable crust and flavors to suit dietary preferences and taste

Ingredients Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

• For the Crust:
• 1 cup graham 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

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ins

• Substitute graham cracker crumbs with chocolate cookie crumbs, almond meal, or gluten-free options for the crust
• Replace the vanilla bean with 2 teaspoons vanilla extract if bean is unavailable (note: less aromatic)
• For a seasonal twist, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice to the filling
• Swirl in fruit purees like raspberry or passion fruit for fruity variations

Step-by-Step Instructions Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

• Preheat oven and prepare crust:
  Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each liner. Set aside.
• Make cheesecake filling:
  In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Fill and bake:
  Divide the batter evenly over the crusts, about 3/4 full in each liner. Bake 20-25 minutes, until centers are set but slightly jiggly. Cool completely.
• Chill cupcakes:
  Refrigerate the cooled cupcakes for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
• Caramelize sugar topping:
  Before serving, sprinkle 1 teaspoon sugar on each cupcake top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden, crisp, and crackling. Let cool for a minute.

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per cupcake

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store refrigerated cupcakes up to 3 days, add caramelized sugar topping just before serving to keep it crisp.

Freeze unfrosted cupcakes (without caramelized sugar) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Re-caramelize sugar topping just before serving for best texture.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Garnish with fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a pop of color and freshness.

Add mint leaves, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Pair with coffee drinks like espresso or latte, or serve with dessert wines like Moscato or port.

Optional Variations

Spice it up with cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor

Fruit lovers can swirl raspberry or passion fruit puree into the filling

Swap the crust to chocolate cookie crumbs or gluten-free almond meal crust for unique twists

Cultural Context

This recipe artfully merges two beloved desserts—cheesecake’s creamy richness and crème brûlée’s caramelized elegance—offering a sophisticated yet approachable treat. The use of real vanilla bean elevates the dessert to a gourmet level, celebrating the fine art of French patisserie alongside American classic cheesecake.

Conclusion

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes deliver a luxurious dessert experience through their perfect balance of creamy filling, buttery crust, and caramelized sugar topping. Ideal for entertaining or personal indulgence, they transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary treat that’s both impressive and approachable. Whether for celebrations, gifting, or quiet moments of bliss, these cupcakes are sure to delight all dessert lovers.