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Crème brûlée cheesecake bars combine two beloved desserts into one. You get the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake and the crunchy, sweet crust. This dessert is a showstopper. It looks great and tastes even better.

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy and crunchy with these irresistible Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars. They blend the rich texture of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, making them a perfect showstopper for any occasion. Discover easy steps to create this sweet treat, along with pro tips to elevate your dessert game.
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup brown sugar (for the brûlée topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

    Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

      Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).

        Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until all ingredients are incorporated and smooth.

          Incorporate heavy cream: Pour in the heavy cream and mix on low speed until the batter is combined but not overmixed.

            Combine layers: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

              Bake: Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

                Brûlée the topping: Once set, sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar across the top of the cheesecake. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it caramelizes and forms a crisp topping. Alternatively, you can place it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

                  Slice and serve: Once the sugar has cooled and hardened, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours (includes refrigeration) | Servings: 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesecake bars on a decorative platter with fresh berries and mint leaves on the side to enhance the visual appeal. Consider using a clean, sharp knife for clean slicing to showcase the layers while serving.