Delicious Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate dessert fusion with these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes. Each cupcake is a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and the classic custard dessert, topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. Ideal for any occasion, these elegant treats are sure to impress your friends and family while satisfying your sweet tooth. Elevate your dessert game with this delectable recipe that combines simplicity and gourmet flair!

Autumn Pierce

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-11-29T11:38:31.759Z

These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are not only delicious but also beautiful. Perfect for gatherings, they bring an elegant touch to the dessert table.

A Perfect Fusion of Flavors

These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes bring together two beloved desserts into one delightful treat. The creamy richness of cheesecake meets the custardy decadence of crème brûlée, creating a bite-sized dessert that is both familiar and exciting. Each cupcake promises a unique flavor experience, thanks to the infusion of vanilla bean paste, which adds warmth and depth to the overall taste.

The contrast between the creamy filling and the crisp, caramelized sugar topping further elevates this dessert. As you take a bite, the smooth cheesecake greets your palate, followed by a satisfying crunch of perfectly torched sugar. It's this balance of textures and flavors that makes these cupcakes so irresistible and perfect for any celebration.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

While these cupcakes may sound gourmet, the preparation is surprisingly straightforward. With basic kitchen tools and simple ingredients, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is designed for bakers of all levels—from beginners to seasoned pros—ensuring that everyone can enjoy the art of dessert-making with ease.

The elegance of these cupcakes will have everyone guessing that you spent a great deal of time crafting each one, but in reality, they are a fun and satisfying baking project. Whether you’re preparing for a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this delightful fusion is sure to be the highlight of the occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes are versatile enough to fit any event. From intimate dinners to large celebrations, they add a touch of sophistication to your dessert table. Their individual serving size makes them easy to serve and enjoy, eliminating the stress of portioning out slices from a cake or pie.

They are also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Those who indulge in these exquisite cupcakes will surely look forward to future gatherings, knowing that they will be treated to this luscious dessert. Create memorable moments by adding these stunning cupcakes to your next feast or celebration.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Crème Brûlée Topping

  • 1/4 cup sugar for caramelizing
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a cupcake pan with liners.

Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well. Stir in the vanilla bean paste and flour, followed by the heavy cream.

Bake the Cupcakes

Pour the batter into the lined cupcake cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.

Cool and Prepare Topping

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely. Once cool, sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top of each cupcake.

Caramelize the Sugar

Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it is golden and crispy. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy every delicious bite!

The Magic of Vanilla Bean

Vanilla bean is the star of this recipe, transforming ordinary flavors into extraordinary ones. Unlike vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste contains tiny specks of real vanilla seeds, providing a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Using vanilla bean paste not only enhances the taste but also elevates the overall presentation of the cupcakes, making them look as delightful as they taste.

Incorporating vanilla bean paste into your baking allows you to create depth in your desserts. It’s essential for achieving that signature crème brûlée essence in these cupcakes, making each bite a velvety explosion of vanilla goodness that will linger on your taste buds long after the last crumb is gone.

Tips for Successful Caramelization

Caramelizing the sugar on top of your cupcakes is a crucial step in achieving the perfect crème brûlée effect, and it requires a bit of technique. Use a kitchen torch to control the heat and ensure even caramelization. This allows you to melt the sugar gradually, creating a crispy, golden crust. Keep the torch moving to avoid burning any one spot.

If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can also use your oven's broiler. Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the sugar bubbles and turns golden brown. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning. The end result will be the same—an irresistible texture that complements the rich cheesecake filling perfectly.

Storing and Serving Tips

These cupcakes can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy bakers. However, for the best texture, only caramelize the sugar right before serving. Storing them with the caramelized topping can result in a soggy crust, which detracts from the signature crunch. Instead, prepare the cupcakes a day in advance and add the sugar topping just before you’re ready to serve them.

When serving, consider garnishing your Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair. This not only enhances their appearance but also offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cupcakes. Your guests will be delighted by the combination of flavors and presentation!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cupcakes a day in advance and caramelize the sugar right before serving.

Delicious Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

Experience the ultimate dessert fusion with these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes. Each cupcake is a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and the classic custard dessert, topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. Ideal for any occasion, these elegant treats are sure to impress your friends and family while satisfying your sweet tooth. Elevate your dessert game with this delectable recipe that combines simplicity and gourmet flair!

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time1 hour

Created by: Autumn Pierce

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes

What You'll Need

For the Cupcakes

  1. 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/2 cup sugar
  3. 2 large eggs
  4. 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  5. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  6. 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Crème Brûlée Topping

  1. 1/4 cup sugar for caramelizing
  2. 1 tsp vanilla bean paste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a cupcake pan with liners.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well. Stir in the vanilla bean paste and flour, followed by the heavy cream.

Step 03

Pour the batter into the lined cupcake cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.

Step 04

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely. Once cool, sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top of each cupcake.

Step 05

Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it is golden and crispy. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 25g
  • Protein: 5g