𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

1. Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter an 8 by 8-inch baking dish.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and mix with a fork until evenly moistened.

Press the mixture into an even layer in the prepared baking dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool while preparing the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup granulated sugar and flour.

Add the cream cheese and use an electric hand mixer set on low speed to blend until smooth, about 1 minute.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition.

Add heavy cream, sour cream, and vanilla extract, and blend just until combined.

Tap the bowl forcefully against the countertop about 30 times to release air bubbles.

Butter the sides of the baking dish and pour the filling over the crust.

Place the 8 by 8-inch baking dish into a 13 by 9-inch baking dish or roasting pan. Pour about 3 cups of hot water into the larger pan to create a water bath.

Bake in the preheated oven for 42-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is fairly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to rest in the warm oven with the door closed for 10 minutes, or until the center only slightly jiggles.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack at room temperature for 1 hour. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

3. Prepare the Topping:

Cut the chilled cheesecake into squares.

Sprinkle each square with an even layer of granulated sugar.

Using a culinary torch, melt the sugar until it caramelizes and turns into a smooth, golden-brown surface. Allow the topping to cool and harden.

4. Garnish (Optional):

Pipe or spoon a small dollop of whipped cream over each cheesecake bar.

Top with a fresh raspberry and garnish with mint if desired.

5. Storage:

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy these decadent cheesecake bars with a perfect crème brûlée finish!