Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

 Ingredients:

**Crust:**
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

**Cheesecake Filling:**
– 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, softened
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

**Crème Brûlée Topping:**
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
– In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to create an even layer.
– Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:**
– In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
– Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.

3. **Bake the Cheesecake:**
– Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
– Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 70-80 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are lightly browned.
– Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
– Remove the cheesecake from the oven and the water bath, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. **Add the Crème Brûlée Topping:**
– Just before serving, sprinkle the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
– Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden-brown crust. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
– If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecake under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, watching very closely to avoid burning.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden for a few minutes.
– Slice and serve your Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, enjoying the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy caramel topping.

Enjoy your delicious and elegant Crème Brûlée Cheesecake!