What makes Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes special?

These cupcakes combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized sugar topping of classic crème brûlée, creating irresistible mini crème brûlée cheesecakes that are perfect for parties, weeknights, or special occasions. This vanilla bean crème brûlée cheesecake cupcakes recipe delivers gourmet flavor in a convenient, bite-sized dessert.

Can I make a creme brulee no bake cheesecake version?

Yes! Simply skip the baking step and chill the cheesecake filling in the refrigerator. The result is a smooth, creamy dessert that maintains the classic vanilla bean flavor, making it one of the best vanilla bean crème brûlée cheesecake cupcakes you can enjoy.

How do I get the perfect caramelized top on my mini creme brûlée cheesecakes?

Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of sugar on top of each cupcake and use a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize the sugar evenly. This creates the signature crisp layer found in classic crème brûlée pastry and creme brulee cake recipes.

Can I customize the flavor of these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate, coffee, or fruit flavors to the filling or topping. Inspired by molly's cupcakes recipe style, this recipe allows you to make unique crème brûlée dessert ideas while keeping the cupcakes rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible.

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe 2026

Name: Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Seeds from 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar for topping

Description

Mini cheesecakes infused with real vanilla bean, baked to creamy perfection, and finished with a crackling layer of caramelized sugar — all in convenient cupcake form. Elegant, indulgent, and perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Makes 12 cupcakes):

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Seeds from 1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)

For the Caramelized Topping:

2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each liner. Bake for 5–7 minutes, then cool slightly.

Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition.
Mix in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

Pour cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts, filling almost to the top of each liner.
Bake 20–25 minutes, until edges are set and centers slightly jiggle.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture.

Step 4: Caramelize the Tops

Sprinkle ~1 teaspoon sugar evenly on top of each cupcake.
Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt and caramelize the sugar until golden brown.
(Alternatively, broil in the oven for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.)
Let the sugar harden for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Vanilla Tip: Split a fresh vanilla bean and scrape the seeds for the most intense flavor.
Torch Alternative: If you don’t have a torch, place under a hot broiler, watching constantly to prevent burning.
Make-Ahead: Can be made a day in advance; caramelize sugar just before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cheesecake / Mini Dessert
Method: Baked + Torch/Caramelize
Cuisine: French-Inspired / American