Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars Simple and Delicious Treat

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 0.5 cups sour cream
• 0.25 cups heavy cream
• 0.25 cups additional sugar for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch (or similar size) baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, and mix well.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
7. When ready to serve, sprinkle the top evenly with the ¼ cup of sugar. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it creates a crisp, golden layer. Be cautious not to burn the sugar.
8. Let the caramelized sugar cool for a minute to harden. Slice the cheesecake bars into squares and serve chilled.