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1. Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the cheesecake filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract and salt, and beat until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Slowly add the heavy cream and beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The batter will be thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the cheesecake bars:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the cheesecake bars at 325°F (163°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggles when you tap the pan.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake bars in the oven for another 1 hour to cool gradually.
Once they have cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
4. Add the crème brûlée topping:
Before serving, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar (about 1/4 cup) over the top of the chilled cheesecake bars.
Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crispy layer. Be sure to move the torch back and forth to prevent burning the sugar.
(If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the bars under the broiler for 2–3 minutes. Just be sure to watch closely to prevent burning!)
5. Slice and serve:
Allow the sugar topping to harden for a few minutes before slicing the cheesecake bars into squares.
Serve immediately for that perfect crème brûlée crunch, or refrigerate for later enjoyment!
Tips:
If you want an extra burst of flavor, try infusing the cream with vanilla beans or another flavoring before adding it to the cheesecake filling.
These bars can be topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel for added flair.
You can prepare these a day ahead for a hassle-free dessert option!
Enjoy these indulgent Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars—they’re creamy, crunchy, and absolutely decadent!
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