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Every great cheesecake begins with a solid foundation, and for Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, that foundation is a graham cracker crust. This crust is not only easy to prepare but also brings a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky smooth filling. Made from crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter, the crust adds a hint of sweetness and a slight nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dessert.

Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes

Elevate your dessert game with Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes, a delightful twist on the classic French dessert. These individual treats combine a rich, creamy cheesecake filling with a crunchy caramelized sugar topping, perfect for any occasion. With their elegant presentation and satisfying flavors, they are ideal for parties or family gatherings. Discover how to make these bite-sized delights that everyone will love, from crafting the graham cracker crust to achieving the perfect caramel finish. Enjoy a decadent dessert experience in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

A pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended for flavor depth)

2 large eggs

1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Fresh berries and/or mint leaves (for optional garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    - Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C).

      - In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.

        - Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of each liner, creating an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

          Make the Cheesecake Filling:

            - In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

              - Add the granulated sugar and mix well, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure there are no lumps.

                - Incorporate the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using), mixing until fully blended. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.

                  - Finally, pour in the heavy cream and mix until the filling is entirely smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

                    Assemble and Bake:

                      - Evenly pour the cheesecake filling over the crusts in the muffin tin, filling each liner nearly to the top to allow for slight expansion during baking.

                        - Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still have a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar, allowing the cheesecakes to cool gradually inside for 30 minutes. This helps prevent cracking.

                          Chill:

                            - After cooling in the oven, transfer the cheesecakes to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, although overnight chilling will yield the best results.

                              Caramelize the Topping:

                                - Just before serving, evenly sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of each cheesecake.

                                  - Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns a golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, place the cheesecakes under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

                                    - Allow the caramelized sugar topping to harden for about a minute before serving.

                                      Serve:

                                        - For an attractive presentation, garnish the tops of the cheesecakes with fresh berries and/or mint leaves. Enjoy the delightful layers of flavor and texture in your Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes!

                                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 5 hours (including chilling time) | makes 12 mini cheesecakes