Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake combines rich, nutty flavors with the classic creamy texture that cheesecake lovers crave. Infused with nutty brown butter and flecked with real vanilla bean, this dessert is a luxurious treat perfect for celebrations or a special night in. Finished with a buttery graham cracker crust, every bite delivers a heavenly balance of sweetness and depth that will leave your guests craving more.

Autumn Pierce

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-11-29T11:38:27.560Z

This cheesecake is an indulgent dessert that elevates any occasion.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake is a celebration of flavor. The combination of nutty brown butter and the aromatic vanilla elevates this dessert to a new level of sophistication. Each ingredient plays a harmonious role, contributing to the rich backdrop that defines this cheesecake. The sweetness from the sugars is perfectly balanced with the tanginess of the sour cream, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

The infusion of real vanilla bean brings warmth and an elegance that cannot be replicated with artificial flavors. Its flecks throughout the filling are not just visually appealing but also add a complex depth to the taste. Together with the nutty undertones from the brown butter, this cheesecake invites taste buds to explore a delightful journey that is both comforting and luxurious.

A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

Nothing brings people together quite like dessert, and this Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake is sure to impress. Whether it's a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or a simple family dinner, this cheesecake will be the star of the table. Its creamy texture and refined flavors are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Everyone will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!

Serving this cheesecake is as enjoyable as making it. Slice into the smooth filling and reveal the buttery graham cracker crust, a perfect complement to the rich flavors above. Dress it up with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate for an impressive presentation that enhances its allure. No matter how you serve it, this cheesecake is destined to be remembered.

Expert Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake, make sure to let your cream cheese soften completely before mixing. This will ensure a smooth filling free of lumps. Additionally, never hesitate to double-check that your brown butter has cooled slightly before adding it to the mixture, as hot butter can alter the texture of your filling.

Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cheesecake as it bakes. It should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done. Allowing it to cool in the oven afterward helps prevent cracks, giving your cheesecake a flawless finish. Patience is key—chilling the cheesecake for at least four hours allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating the perfect treat to savor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your cheesecake:

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 1/2 cup brown butter

Combine all ingredients thoroughly before cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cheesecake:

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugars, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and browned butter. Mix until fully combined.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60 minutes, or until set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour.

Cool and Serve

Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious cheesecake.

Graham Cracker Crust: A Classic Base

The graham cracker crust is a staple in many cheesecake recipes for good reason. It strikes the right balance between crunchy and crumbly, providing a delightful contrast to the rich filling. This crust is incredibly easy to make, requiring just three simple ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter. Melt the butter and combine it with the crushed graham crackers and sugar to form a crumbly base that will hold together beautifully once baked.

If you want to add some variation to the crust, consider adding finely chopped nuts or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth. This simple tweak can introduce another layer of flavor that complements the rich notes of the cheesecake filling. Regardless of modifications, the graham cracker crust will serve as the perfect foundation for your dessert, adding both texture and taste to enhance the overall experience.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes time to serve your Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake, consider garnishing it with fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or sliced kiwi. These bright and tart elements can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy cheesecake. Alternatively, you might serve it with a drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of caramel sauce for an indulgent touch that will delight chocolate lovers.

For an added layer of flavor, consider pairing your cheesecake with a light dessert wine or coffee. A sweet Riesling or a rich espresso can beautifully complement the flavors in the cheesecake, rounding out your dessert experience. Additionally, serve it alongside a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience even further. Each of these suggestions can transform an already delightful dessert into a legendary indulgence.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use an Oreo crust or a nut-based crust as alternatives.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake

This Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake combines rich, nutty flavors with the classic creamy texture that cheesecake lovers crave. Infused with nutty brown butter and flecked with real vanilla bean, this dessert is a luxurious treat perfect for celebrations or a special night in. Finished with a buttery graham cracker crust, every bite delivers a heavenly balance of sweetness and depth that will leave your guests craving more.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration1 hour
Overall Time1 hour 30 minutes

Created by: Autumn Pierce

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 10 servings

What You'll Need

Crust

  1. 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  2. 1/4 cup sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

  1. 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup sugar
  3. 1/4 cup brown sugar
  4. 1/2 cup sour cream
  5. 2 large eggs
  6. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  7. 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  8. 1/2 cup brown butter

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugars, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and browned butter. Mix until fully combined.

Step 03

Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60 minutes, or until set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour.

Step 04

Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 30g