Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

 Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

 Ingredients

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelized top)

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar and mix well.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

3. Bake:

1. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is slightly set.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).

4. Create the Crème Brûlée Top:

1. Sprinkle an even layer of sugar over the chilled cheesecake.
2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
   (If you don’t have a torch, you can use the oven broiler carefully.)

 Tips:

• Let the caramelized top harden for a few minutes before serving.
• For clean slices, use a knife dipped in warm water.