Description

These elegant mini cheesecakes combine the creamy richness of caramel pecan filling with a crackly brûlée topping. A decadent bite-sized dessert perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

¾ cup graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup finely chopped pecans

3 tablespoons brown sugar

4 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

¼ cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Brûlée Topping & Garnish:

¼ cup granulated sugar (for brûlée)

Extra caramel sauce, for drizzling

Toasted chopped pecans, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.

Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottoms of the liners. Bake for 5–6 minutes, then cool slightly.

Make the Filling: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs (one at a time), sour cream, vanilla, and caramel sauce. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Assemble and Bake: Divide filling evenly over each crust. Smooth the tops and bake for 18–22 minutes, until just set and slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool and Chill: Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Brûlée Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each cheesecake. Caramelize with a kitchen torch until golden and crackly.

Garnish: Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and top with toasted pecans. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use a silicone muffin pan or parchment liners for easy removal.

For best results, chill completely before torching the sugar topping.

For extra crunch, torch the sugar in two thin layers.

Add a pinch of sea salt to the topping for a salted caramel twist.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking, Torch
Cuisine: American, French-Inspired