1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the Crust:
Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it down.
Bake the Crust:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the Cream Cheese:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Eggs:
Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in Remaining Ingredients:
Add the sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and flour. Beat on low speed until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Pour Over Crust:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should still be slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Chill:
After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
3. Prepare the Crème Brûlée Topping
Caramelize the Sugar:
Just before serving, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the chilled cheesecake bars. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it is golden brown and forms a crisp, caramelized layer. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the bars under a broiler for a few minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
Cool and Garnish:
Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden before cutting the bars. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.
4. Serve
Slice and Serve:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Success
Even Caramelization: Ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed over the surface of the cheesecake to achieve a uniform caramelized layer.
Torch Safety: When using a kitchen torch, work in a well-ventilated area and follow safety instructions to avoid accidents.
Chilling: Make sure the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled before adding the crème brûlée topping to ensure it holds its shape when cut.
Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a luxurious and impressive dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic crispy topping of crème brûlée. Perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat, these bars are sure to delight your taste buds!
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