Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe
If you want to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, these Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes are an absolute must-try. They combine the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the classic soft cupcake base, topped with a perfectly crisp and caramelized creme brulee layer that adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy vanilla bean goodness and sweet caramelized sugar that feels both indulgent and sophisticated. Once you make these Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes, they will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for these cupcakes is surprisingly simple, yet each one plays a vital role to ensure the final treat is bursting with flavor, texture, and the perfect color. From the all-purpose flour that creates a tender cupcake base to the luscious cream cheese for that dreamy cheesecake center, every item contributes to the magic.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cupcake base, keeping it soft but stable.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cupcake and cheesecake layers, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise to a perfect, fluffy height.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the batter for tender cupcakes.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients and contributes to that airy texture.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Gives the cupcakes a slight tang and moist crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses comforting vanilla flavor into the base.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake filling, delivering a creamy texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without overpowering it.
- 1 large egg (for filling): Sets the cheesecake filling perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling): Adds stability to the cheesecake mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Packed with real vanilla bean seeds for a luxurious flavor burst.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping): Essential for creating that signature caramelized creme brulee crust.
- Additional fresh vanilla bean seeds (optional): Perfect for an elegant garnish that highlights the vanilla flavor.
How to Make Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This initial step sets the stage for perfectly baked cupcakes with minimal hassle.
Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is where the cupcake gets its lovely texture. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Next, stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, which bring moisture and warm vanilla notes to the batter.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix—this keeps the cupcakes tender and prevents toughness.
Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners Halfway
Divide the cupcake batter evenly among your cupcake liners, filling each about halfway to make room for the decadent cheesecake filling that’s coming next.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until you get a smooth consistency. Then add the egg, flour, and vanilla bean paste. Mixing these until fully combined creates the silky cheesecake layer that will melt in your mouth.
Step 6: Add the Cheesecake Filling on Top
Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the cupcake batter in each liner, filling nearly to the top. This layering promises a luscious cheesecake surprise inside every cupcake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cupcakes for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a perfectly cooked cupcake and filling.
Step 8: Cool Down Before Caramelizing
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cheesecake filling sets nicely before you add the finishing touch.
Step 9: Prepare and Caramelize the Creme Brulee Topping
Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar evenly over each cooled cheesecake filling. Then, using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it transforms into a golden, crispy crust. If a torch isn’t available, place the cupcakes under a broiler while watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 10: Garnish and Impress
For a gorgeous finishing touch, scatter a few fresh vanilla bean seeds on the caramelized top. These Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes now look as exquisite as they taste!
How to Serve Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh vanilla bean seeds or a small sprig of mint enhances both the appearance and aroma of the cupcakes. You might also consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch that looks stunning on dessert plates.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair beautifully with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries, offering a bright, tart contrast to the creamy sweetness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cupcakes on a pretty tiered dessert stand for parties or arrange them on decorative plates alongside edible flowers for a charming presentation. You can also place them in clear cupcake boxes to gift-to-go for a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes refrigerated in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. They stay best when enjoyed within 3 to 4 days, as the caramelized topping retains its delicate crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes before applying the caramelized sugar topping. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and caramelize the topping fresh for that signature crackly finish.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated cupcakes at room temperature or briefly in the oven at low heat to bring out their flavor. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the creme brulee crust, which is one of the best parts of these Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?
Yes, although vanilla bean paste offers those lovely tiny seeds and a deeper flavor, you can substitute with pure vanilla extract if needed. Just adjust the quantity to taste, keeping in mind that the paste provides both aroma and texture.
What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for the caramelized topping?
No worries! You can place the cupcakes under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching very closely to avoid burning. It might not be as perfect as a torch, but it still creates a fantastic crispy sugar crust.
Are these cupcakes suitable for a party or special occasion?
Absolutely! Their elegant look and rich flavors make Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, whether it’s a birthday, bridal shower, or holiday celebration.
Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
While the recipe relies on cream cheese and butter for its signature taste and texture, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, but results may vary in texture and flavor.
How long does it take to make these cupcakes from start to finish?
From prepping ingredients to caramelizing the topping, expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes baking, cooling, and finishing touches — definitely worth every minute for such a stunning dessert.
Final Thoughts
Making these Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes is an absolute joy and a delicious way to elevate any dessert occasion. With their creamy centers, tender bases, and that signature caramelized top, they promise to delight both your eyes and your palate. Trust me, once you try these cupcakes, you’ll find yourself coming back to them time and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this spectacular sweet indulgence!
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Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes combine the best of creamy cheesecake and soft, moist cupcakes with a delicate caramelized sugar topping reminiscent of classic creme brulee. They feature a rich vanilla bean flavor and a satisfying crunch from the brûléed sugar, making them an elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Base:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
For the Creme Brulee Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Additional fresh vanilla bean seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Make the Cupcake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the lined muffin cups, filling each about halfway to allow space for the cheesecake layer.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the egg, flour, and vanilla bean paste, mixing thoroughly until completely combined and creamy.
- Add Cheesecake Filling: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cupcake batter in each liner, filling nearly to the top to create a generous cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cupcakes and cheesecake filling are cooked through.
- Cool Down: Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the cheesecake layer sets properly.
- Prepare Creme Brulee Topping: Once fully cooled, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar atop the cheesecake filling of each cupcake to prepare for caramelizing.
- Caramelize: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar by melting it until it turns a golden-brown, crisp crust. Alternatively, place the cupcakes under a preheated broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish: For an elegant finish, optionally sprinkle additional fresh vanilla bean seeds on top of the caramelized sugar before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Use a kitchen torch for best caramelization results; a broiler can be used but requires careful monitoring.
- Do not overmix cupcake batter to keep cupcakes tender.
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before caramelizing sugar to prevent melting the topping.
- The additional vanilla bean seeds garnish is optional but enhances flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and torch caramelizing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: vanilla bean, creme brulee, cheesecake, cupcakes, dessert, caramelized sugar, vanilla bean paste
