Description
Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the nutty depth of brown butter with the delicate aroma of real vanilla bean. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and rich flavor, this cheesecake is pure indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, browned
- For the Filling:
- 24 oz (675 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- For the Topping (optional):
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1 tbsp brown butter (cooled)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until golden brown with a nutty aroma (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and browned butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Beat in sour cream, vanilla bean paste, vanilla extract, and flour until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated (do not overmix to avoid cracks).
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (water bath method).
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Topping: Whip the cream with brown butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Use real vanilla bean paste for a stronger vanilla flavor and beautiful specks throughout the cheesecake.
- Browning the butter adds a nutty aroma that perfectly complements the creamy texture.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- For a twist, top with caramel sauce or toasted pecans.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American