Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a medium bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Tip: Press the crust down evenly using the back of a measuring cup to get a smooth, even base.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Be sure to beat on medium speed to avoid incorporating too much air.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
• Mix in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sour cream until all ingredients are well combined and the filling is smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Tip: Use room-temperature ingredients to avoid lumps in your cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

• Bake the cheesecake at 325°F for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
• Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This ensures that the cheesecake firms up properly.

Tip: For a perfectly smooth cheesecake, bake it in a water bath. Wrap the outside of the pan with foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water to help prevent cracks.

Step 4: Create the Brûlée Topping

• Once the cheesecake has chilled, evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup granulated sugar over the top.
• Use a kitchen torch to melt the sugar until it caramelizes and turns a golden brown, forming a crisp, crackly top. Alternatively, you can place the cheesecake under the broiler for a few minutes if you don’t have a torch.

Tip: Hold the torch about 2 inches from the surface of the sugar and move it in circular motions to melt the sugar evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Allow the brûlée topping to cool and harden for a few minutes before slicing the cheesecake into bars.
• Serve and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy caramelized sugar in every bite!