Description
These mini cheesecakes combine creamy cheesecake filling with bright orange zest and a luscious caramel swirl, topped with a perfectly brûléed sugar crust. They’re individual portions of bliss, ideal for a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 150g (5oz) Graham Cracker Crumbs (1.5 cups): For a flavorful crust.
- 30g (2 Tbsp) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Binds the crust.
- 400g (14oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: The base of the creamy filling.
- 120g (0.5 cup) Granulated Sugar (for filling): Adds sweetness.
- 2 Large Eggs: Provides structure and richness.
- 120ml (0.5 cup) Heavy Cream: Contributes to a smooth texture.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
- 30g (0.25 cup) Powdered Sugar (for brûlée topping): Creates the caramelized crust.
- 150g (0.75 cup) Granulated Sugar (for caramel): The base of the caramel sauce.
- 60ml (0.25 cup) Water (for caramel): Dissolves the sugar.
- 30g (2 Tbsp) Unsalted Butter (for caramel): Adds richness to the caramel.
- 2 tsp Orange Zest: Provides vibrant citrus flavor.
- Pinch Flaky Sea Salt: Balances sweetness.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crusts: Combine crumbs and butter, press into liners, and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add eggs and cream/vanilla.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour filling into crusts, bake in a water bath for 15-18 minutes.
- Chill Cheesecakes: Cool, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare Caramel: Cook sugar and water, then whisk in butter, zest, and salt.
- Caramelize and Brûlée: Drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with sugar, and torch until golden.
Notes
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and avoid overmixing the filling. A water bath is crucial for preventing cracks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: cheesecake,orange,caramel,creme brulee,mini,dessert,citrus,baking,easy