Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake Recipe
This Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the smooth creaminess of vanilla bean-infused cheesecake. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious filling made with cream cheese, sour cream, and a hint of lemon juice, this decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat.
- Author: Mia
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, browned
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Pan: Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan to form a solid crust layer. Chill it in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Flour: Add granulated sugar to the cream cheese and beat until smooth. Mix in the all-purpose flour until fully incorporated.
- Add Vanilla: Blend in vanilla bean paste and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition and scraping down the bowl sides as needed.
- Mix Sour Cream and Lemon Juice: Stir in sour cream and lemon juice until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Brown Butter Preparation: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Add Brown Butter to Batter: Slowly drizzle the brown butter into the cheesecake batter while mixing gently to combine flavors evenly.
- Fill Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling into the chilled crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and keep the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
- Cool to Room Temperature: Remove cheesecake from oven and let it cool completely on the countertop.
- Refrigerate: Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan carefully and transfer to a serving platter. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean slices. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the cheesecake.
- Gradual cooling in the oven helps prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- Use a sharp knife warmed slightly under hot water for cleaner slices.
- The cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- If desired, garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decoration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: vanilla bean cheesecake, brown butter cheesecake, creamy cheesecake recipe, graham cracker crust dessert, homemade cheesecake