Bruleed Vanilla-Bean Cheesecake (Printable Version)
Silky vanilla-bean cheesecake topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust for an indulgent dessert.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Crust
01 -
12 graham crackers, broken into pieces
02 -
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 -
Pinch kosher salt
04 -
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Filling
05 -
450 grams cream cheese, room temperature
06 -
120 milliliters sour cream
07 -
100 grams granulated sugar
08 -
1 large egg, room temperature
09 -
Seeds from 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
10 -
Pinch kosher salt
→ Topping
11 -
50 grams superfine sugar, divided
12 -
Spun sugar, for garnish
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pulse graham crackers, granulated sugar, and kosher salt in a food processor until finely ground. Add melted butter and pulse until evenly combined. Press mixture firmly into the base and up the sides of a 9-inch round tart pan with removable bottom.
02 -
Place pan on a baking sheet and bake until dry and set, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
03 -
In a clean food processor, blend cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla seeds or extract, and kosher salt just until smooth. Avoid overmixing to maintain creamy texture.
04 -
Pour cheesecake batter into the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly.
05 -
Bake at 350°F (175°C) until filling is just set, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 1 hour.
06 -
Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture.
07 -
Evenly sift 1 tablespoon superfine sugar over the surface of the chilled cheesecake, avoiding the crust. Using a small kitchen blowtorch, sweep flame back and forth to caramelize sugar, focusing on the center to prevent burning the crust. Repeat with remaining tablespoon superfine sugar for a second brûléed layer.
08 -
Top with spun sugar for an elegant finish. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping blade clean between cuts for neat servings.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Ensure cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Use both vanilla bean seeds and extract for enhanced flavor. Exercise caution when using the blowtorch.