How to Make Creme Brulee Cheesecake

Amaze your guests with creme brulee cheesecake.

Creme brulee and cheesecake are two popular, delicious desserts, and there is little more decadent than combining the two dishes to make creme brulee cheesecake. Making the tasty burned sugar topping is easier than ever in the broiler, and you do not need to wield a creme brulee torch either. This cheesecake is a sophisticated ending to a meal, whether you're inviting guests over or dining with your family.

Things You'll Need

• Electric mixer
• 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust
• 16 oz. softened cream cheese
• 1/2 cup white sugar (granulated)
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 2 tsp. freshly grated orange peel (optional)
• 2 whole eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. water
• strawberries or blueberries for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven preheats, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese, white sugar, vanilla and orange peel in a large bowl until fully blended.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, then add the egg yolk. Mix until fully blended.

3. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake 40 minutes, until the center is almost set.

4. Chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight.

5. When ready to serve, preheat the broiler. Mix the brown sugar and water in a small bowl, then spread it over the cheesecake. Set the cheesecake on a baking sheet, then broil for 90 seconds approximately 5 inches away from the flame.The topping should be bubbly when it's done.

6. Remove the cheesecake from the broiler. Allow it to cool slightly, then top with berries if desired. Serve and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan ahead when making this dessert. It needs substantial chilling time.

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing, as the filling will not mix properly if the cream cheese is hard. Put it out on the counter 30 minutes before you're ready to bake.

• Don't leave the cheesecake under the broiler for too long, or the sugar will be too burned to enjoy.

References

• KraftRecipes.com; Philadelphia 3-Step Creme Brulee Cheesecake
• Food.com; Creme Brulee Cheesecake; April 2010