Delicious Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

Name: Delicious Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your dessert game this holiday season with these delightful Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes. These individual treats combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the classic crème brûlée flavors, all nestled in a cupcake form. Topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust, they're not only visually stunning but also irresistibly delicious—perfect for Christmas gatherings and festive celebrations.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-20T07:57:12.000Z

An Elegant Twist on Classic Flavors

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes bring together two beloved desserts in one delicious package. The creamy texture of cheesecake pairs beautifully with the crisp, caramelized sugar topping reminiscent of traditional crème brûlée. This delightful combination makes these cupcakes the perfect centerpiece for any festive celebration, offering a taste experience that is both familiar yet intriguingly different.

Not only are these cupcakes a feast for the palate, but they are also stunning to behold. The contrasting textures of the smooth cheesecake and crunchy sugar crust create visual allure that complements their rich flavors. Impress your guests this holiday season by serving these elegant treats at your next gathering—they're sure to spark joy and excitement!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, participating in a potluck, or simply craving a luxurious dessert, these cheesecake cupcakes fit the bill. They can easily be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you're ready to serve—making them an ideal choice for busy festive schedules. Just remember to caramelize the sugar topping just before serving to ensure it retains that crunchy texture.

These cupcakes not only taste heavenly but also cater to a range of dietary preferences. With just a few simple substitutions, you can adapt the recipe to accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free diets, allowing everyone to enjoy a homemade dessert. Just imagine sharing these delightful cupcakes with family and friends, each bite encapsulating the spirit of the holiday season.

Tips for Success

For the best results when making your Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes, use high-quality cream cheese, as it significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your cheesecake filling. Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature to ensure that it blends smoothly with the sugar and sour cream. Also, avoid over-mixing the batter to keep the cupcakes light and airy.

When it comes to caramelizing the sugar topping, a kitchen torch is the best tool for even browning. However, if you don't have one, you can place the cupcakes under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a watchful eye to avoid burning. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and an enticing flavor, elevating your dessert experience to new heights.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
2 large eggs

For the Cupcake Base

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Sugar Crust

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Make the cheesecake filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and subsequently beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.

Prepare the cupcake batter

In another bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined.

Assemble the cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about halfway with the cupcake batter, add a tablespoon of the cheesecake filling on top, then finish with more cupcake batter until all liners are filled about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Caramelize the sugar topping

Once cooled, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of the cupcakes. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crispy.

Enjoy!

Storage Tips

These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just remember that the sugar topping will lose its crispness over time, so consider caramelizing them just before serving if possible.

If you have leftover cupcakes that you wish to store for longer, you can freeze them without the sugar topping. Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and caramelize the sugar topping before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavor experience, consider serving the Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the rich cheesecake flavor.

For a seasonal touch, garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and festive flair. Alternatively, you can drizzle a bit of caramel or chocolate sauce on the plate for an elegant presentation that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, but the flavor may not be as rich.

→ How do I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.