Go Back
To make crème brûlée cheesecake bars, you need a few key ingredients. The base is made from graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar. These ingredients give the bars a nice crunch. You mix the crumbs with melted butter and sugar, then press it into a baking dish.

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Indulge your sweet tooth with these luscious crème brûlée cheesecake bars! Combining the creamy delight of cheesecake with a crispy caramelized topping, this easy homemade dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Discover essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and creative variations to customize your bars. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your dessert game today!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)

Fresh berries and mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out later.

    In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and crumbly.

      Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

        In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.

          Add the vanilla extract, eggs (one at a time), sour cream, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until smooth and well combined, making sure not to overmix.

            Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

              Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake bars inside for an additional 10 minutes to cool gradually. This prevents cracks from forming.

                Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to set completely.

                  When ready to serve, remove the bars from the refrigerator and lift them out using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares.

                    To create the signature brûlée topping, sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar on top of each cheesecake square. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it caramelizes and forms a crispy layer. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the bars under the broiler for a few minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.

                      Allow the brûlée topping to cool for a minute or two before serving.

                        - Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling) | Servings: 12 bars

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesecake bars on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color.