Creamy, rich, and topped with that iconic crackly sugar topping, Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are a dream dessert that blends two classics into one unforgettable bite. These elegant little cheesecakes are just the right size for individual servings, making them perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or even as a luxurious solo treat.

With a luscious vanilla bean cheesecake base nestled on a crisp graham cracker crust, each mini is finished with a torch-kissed caramelized sugar shell that shatters beautifully when tapped with a spoon. It’s the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the dramatic flair of crème brûlée—no water bath required, and surprisingly simple to pull off.

Why You’ll Love This Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

These cheesecakes are the best of both dessert worlds. They bring the tangy richness of cheesecake and marry it with the sophisticated crunch of brûléed sugar. Not only do they look like something straight out of a pastry shop, but they also taste like it too. Plus, their make-ahead convenience means less stress when entertaining—just torch before serving.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

For the smoothest texture and best flavor, always go for full-fat block cream cheese, not the spreadable kind that comes in tubs. The block variety has less moisture and results in a firmer, creamier cheesecake. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure an ultra-smooth batter.

Ingredients for the Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

To make these indulgent cheesecakes, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that work together to create layers of texture and flavor.

Graham crackers form the base of your crust. They offer a sweet, nutty crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Butter binds the graham cracker crumbs into a cohesive crust and adds a rich flavor once baked.

Cream cheese is the star of the filling. Its tangy creaminess is the perfect canvas for vanilla and sugar.

Granulated sugar sweetens both the cheesecake filling and the crisp brûlée topping.

Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste brings deep, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel notes of the topping.

Eggs add structure and richness to the cheesecake, helping it set without becoming dense.

Heavy cream adds an extra touch of silkiness to the filling.

Salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the vanilla flavor.

How To Make the Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of each liner to form a crust. Bake for 5 minutes and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, mixing until creamy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add heavy cream. Mix just until combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecakes

Divide the batter evenly over the cooled crusts. Tap the tray gently to release air bubbles. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until centers are set with a slight jiggle. Let cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.

Step 4: Brûlée the Tops

Right before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each cheesecake. Use a kitchen torch to melt the sugar until it bubbles and caramelizes into a golden shell. Let sit for a few minutes until the sugar hardens.

How to Serve and Store Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

These cheesecakes are best served chilled with the sugar topping freshly torched for the full brûlée effect. They make an elegant presentation on a dessert platter or as a plated finale for dinner.

You can store the cheesecakes (without the sugar topping) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Only torch the sugar just before serving to keep the top crisp. This recipe makes 12 mini cheesecakes, ideal for feeding a small gathering or treating yourself throughout the week.

What to Serve With Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecake?

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries or sliced strawberries cuts through the richness and adds a bright contrast.

Espresso or Coffee

The slight bitterness of coffee enhances the caramel notes of the topping.

Chocolate Shavings

Sprinkle a few dark chocolate curls on the plate for an elegant touch.

Fruit Coulis

A drizzle of raspberry or mango coulis adds color and acidity.

Whipped Cream

A small dollop balances the caramelized top with something light and airy.

Citrus Zest

Grated lemon or orange zest brightens every bite.

Salted Caramel Sauce

For a double hit of caramel, a light drizzle of this sauce brings extra indulgence.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If you love these Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, you’ll definitely want to try these other luscious desserts:

4-Ingredient Banana Greek Yogurt Cheesecake for a lighter, fruity spin.
Decadent Pistachio Cream Cake when you want a nutty, dreamy delight.
Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a fun and spicy twist on cheesecake flavor.
Peanut Butter Smores Sandwich Cookies if you’re craving creamy with a bit of campfire nostalgia.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you torch with a lighter or a real torch? Add citrus or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes are the show-stopping treat you didn’t know you needed. With simple ingredients and a big payoff, they’re a beautiful blend of elegance and ease. Whether for a celebration or your own sweet moment, this recipe is one to keep in your back pocket.