Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars bring together the creamy decadence of classic cheesecake with the caramelized crunch of toffee bits, creating a luxurious dessert experience. The cookie crust provides a perfect base, while the silky cheesecake filling and toffee topping add layers of irresistible flavor.
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy night in. The balance of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these bars are sure to become a go-to dessert in your repertoire.
Full Recipe:
- 1 pouch (17.5 oz) Betty Crocker™ Sugar Cookie Mix
- 1 box (4-serving size) French vanilla instant pudding and pie filling mix
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
- 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 eggs plus 3 egg yolks
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup toffee bits, finely crushed
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the bottom and sides of a 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix the sugar cookie mix, pudding mix, brown sugar, melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and one whole egg until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom and about 1/2 inch up the sides of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Add the remaining whole egg, egg yolks, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla; continue beating until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until set in the center. Immediately sprinkle the top with crushed toffee bits. Let it cool for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until completely chilled.
- Once set, cut into 36 bars (9 rows by 4 rows) and serve. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal per serving | Servings: 36 servings
Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars: A Decadent Fusion of Two Favorite Desserts
If you’re a fan of desserts that are rich, indulgent, and visually stunning, then Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are sure to captivate your taste buds and become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Combining the creamy, smooth texture of cheesecake with the decadent caramelized sugar topping of crème brûlée, these bars offer the best of both worlds in one irresistible treat.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the origins of crème brûlée and cheesecake, explore variations of this dish, and offer tips for making the perfect Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars every time. We’ll also share some serving suggestions and why this dessert is ideal for various occasions. So, grab a fork and get ready to fall in love with this show-stopping dessert!
A Fusion of Two Classic Desserts
Crème brûlée and cheesecake are two of the most beloved desserts in the world, each with its own unique appeal. Crème brûlée, a French classic, is known for its silky custard base and caramelized sugar topping. The distinct texture contrast between the creamy custard and the crackling sugar layer has earned it a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers.
On the other hand, cheesecake, with its rich, dense, and creamy filling nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust, is a comfort food favorite that’s served at almost every celebratory event. The combination of the tangy cream cheese and the sweet, crumbly base makes it a versatile dessert that can be flavored in countless ways, from chocolate to fruit to vanilla.
The creation of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars brings together the best elements of both desserts. Imagine a cheesecake filling topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar layer that mimics the signature brûlée topping, all encased in a delicate cookie crust. This fusion not only enhances the flavor but also introduces a delightful textural contrast. It’s the perfect marriage of two timeless favorites!
The Origin of Crème Brûlée
Crème brûlée’s origins are a topic of much debate, with both the French and the English claiming to have invented this iconic dessert. The name “crème brûlée” translates to “burnt cream,” which refers to the caramelized sugar topping that defines the dish.
The earliest known reference to crème brûlée dates back to 1691, when it appeared in a French cookbook. However, the English also lay claim to a similar dessert, known as “Trinity Cream,” which was served at Trinity College, Cambridge, in the 18th century. Regardless of where it was first created, crème brûlée has become a French culinary staple, beloved for its delicate custard and the dramatic moment when the caramelized sugar is cracked with a spoon.
The allure of crème brûlée comes from the contrast between the creamy, smooth custard and the crisp, crunchy caramel topping. The slight bitterness of the burnt sugar pairs perfectly with the richness of the custard, creating an indulgent, multi-sensory experience.
Cheesecake: A Timeless Favorite
Cheesecake, with its smooth, tangy filling and buttery crust, has a history that dates back to ancient Greece. The earliest versions of cheesecake were made with simple ingredients like cheese, honey, and wheat. However, the modern version of cheesecake that we know today, made with cream cheese and often flavored with vanilla or fruit, originated in the United States in the early 20th century.
One of the most popular varieties of cheesecake in America is the New York-style cheesecake, which is dense and rich, made with a base of cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream. This type of cheesecake is often topped with a simple fruit topping, such as strawberry or blueberry, although it can be customized with an endless variety of toppings and fillings.
The creamy, dense texture of cheesecake has made it a beloved dessert around the world, and it’s often served at special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and holidays.
Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars: A New Take on Classic Desserts
The concept of combining crème brûlée with cheesecake is a brilliant one. Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars offer the rich, creamy filling of cheesecake but with a fun, modern twist: the brûlée effect. By adding a layer of caramelized sugar on top, these bars offer an extra layer of flavor and texture, giving a nod to the classic French dessert.
One of the key features of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars is the delicate balance of flavors. The cheesecake base is creamy and smooth, with a slight tang from the cream cheese, while the brûlée topping adds a caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the richness of the filling. The crust, often made from a buttery sugar cookie dough or graham crackers, adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
These bars are easy to serve and cut, making them an ideal choice for parties, potlucks, and gatherings. Unlike traditional crème brûlée, which is often served in individual ramekins, Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars can be sliced into individual portions, making them more convenient for serving to a crowd.
Tips for Perfecting Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: To ensure a smooth and lump-free cheesecake filling, make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This will help the ingredients blend together more easily and create a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Overmixing the cheesecake filling can cause it to become too airy, which might affect the texture. Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain a dense, creamy texture.
- Allow the Bars to Set: After baking, let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled. This will allow the flavors to meld and help the bars set properly, ensuring that they hold their shape when sliced.
- Caramelize the Sugar Right Before Serving: To get the perfect crispy, caramelized sugar topping, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of the bars and use a kitchen torch to melt and brown it. You can also use the broiler in your oven, but be careful not to burn the sugar.
- Add Flavor Variations: While the classic Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own, you can add flavor variations to suit your taste. Try infusing the cheesecake filling with flavors like vanilla bean, coffee, or citrus zest. You can also experiment with different types of crusts, such as a crushed almond or pecan crust.
When to Serve Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars
These bars are versatile and can be served at a wide variety of occasions. They’re perfect for:
- Holidays: Serve these bars as a holiday dessert, whether it’s for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s. The rich flavors and elegant presentation will make them a standout on any dessert table.
- Dinner Parties: Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are sure to impress your guests at dinner parties or casual gatherings. Their elegant appearance and delicious flavor will make you the star of the party.
- Potlucks or Picnics: Since these bars are easy to slice and serve, they’re ideal for bringing to potlucks, picnics, or barbecues. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dessert
Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are an indulgent and sophisticated dessert that beautifully combines the elegance of crème brûlée with the comfort of cheesecake. With their creamy filling, crunchy toffee topping, and buttery crust, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
By following a few simple tips and making this dessert your own with flavor variations, you’ll create a show-stopping treat that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are a must-try for anyone who loves desserts that are both delicious and visually stunning.
So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and indulge in the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and crispy textures!