Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

### Instructions for Making Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cupcake Pan
Start by preheating your oven to **325°F (163°C)**. Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners. For added assurance, spray the liners with non-stick spray so your cheesecake cupcakes don’t stick.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, **beat the cream cheese** and **granulated sugar** together until smooth and creamy. This can be done using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes. Add the **eggs**, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Stir in the **vanilla bean paste** (or vanilla extract), **sour cream**, and **heavy cream**. Add the **flour** and **salt**, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.

#### Step 3: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Spoon the cheesecake batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about **¾ of the way full**. The batter will spread and puff up a bit during baking, so don’t overfill. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles and ensure the batter is evenly distributed.

#### Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Cupcakes
Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for **18-22 minutes**, or until the tops are set and just slightly golden around the edges. The center should still have a slight wobble when gently shaken. Be careful not to overbake, as cheesecake can become dry.

Once baked, allow the cheesecake cupcakes to cool completely in the pan, then transfer them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least **2 hours** (or up to overnight) to allow them to fully set.

#### Step 5: Prepare the Crème Brûlée Topping
Once the cheesecake cupcakes are fully chilled and set, it’s time to add the signature crème brûlée topping. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of **light brown sugar** or **granulated sugar** over the top of each cheesecake. The sugar will melt and form a crispy, caramelized layer during the next step.

#### Step 6: Caramelize the Sugar
Using a **kitchen torch**, carefully caramelize the sugar on top of each cupcake. Hold the torch about **2-3 inches** away from the surface and move it in a circular motion to evenly melt and brown the sugar. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can also place the cupcakes under a broiler for about **2-3 minutes**, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the sugar has formed a golden, crispy top, the cupcakes are ready to serve! They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for later. The contrast between the cool, creamy cheesecake and the crunchy, caramelized sugar creates a truly divine dessert experience.

### Tips for the Best Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes

– **Use Fresh Vanilla Beans**: If you can find fresh vanilla beans, they can add an even more intense flavor. Simply scrape out the seeds from 1 vanilla bean and add them to the batter.
– **Chill Thoroughly**: Be sure to chill the cupcakes long enough to let the cheesecake firm up completely. This will ensure a smooth and perfect texture.
– **Caramelize Carefully**: When using a kitchen torch, be patient and move the flame in small, even circles. The goal is to melt the sugar, not burn it.
– **Make Ahead**: These cupcakes are perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare the cheesecake and chill overnight, then caramelize the sugar right before serving.
– **Flavor Variations**: While vanilla bean is classic, you can also experiment with other flavors. Try adding a bit of lemon zest to the batter or a swirl of fruit compote for a twist.

### Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

**Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes** are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds—creamy cheesecake and the crispy, caramelized topping of crème brûlée. The vanilla bean gives the cupcakes a sophisticated, aromatic flavor, and the crispy sugar crust adds a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a show-stopping dessert for a holiday, or simply want a special treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Their individual size makes them easy to serve, while the creamy texture and crunchy topping make each bite a perfect balance of smooth and sweet. With just a few simple steps, you can create these elegant cupcakes that are bound to become your new go-to dessert for any occasion.

So go ahead, indulge in these little bites of heaven—**Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes** are the dessert that will make any day feel special!