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Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake Recipe

4.4 from 117 reviews

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of this Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake. Featuring a crisp graham cracker crust and a creamy filling infused with fresh vanilla bean and nutty brown butter, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and depth in every silky bite. Ideal for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to an elegant, homemade cheesecake.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt

Filling

  • 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Seeds from 1 vanilla bean pod
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, browned and cooled slightly

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray to ensure the cheesecake releases easily after baking. Set the pan aside while preparing the crust.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form a sturdy base. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean pod for intense flavor. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to avoid overbeating. Finally, fold in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is silky and well-blended.
  4. Incorporate Brown Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter until it turns a golden brown color and releases a rich, nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the brown butter slowly into the cheesecake batter and gently fold it in to enhance the flavor depth.
  5. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly to maintain creaminess. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open to cool gradually, which helps prevent cracks on the surface.
  6. Cool and Refrigerate: After about an hour in the oven, remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly. Serve chilled and enjoy your decadent Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Brown the butter carefully to avoid burning; it should have a nutty aroma and golden brown color.
  • Do not overbeat eggs to prevent cracking and maintain a silky texture.
  • Allow gradual cooling in the oven with door ajar to reduce the risk of surface cracks.
  • Refrigerate overnight for best texture and enhanced flavor development.
  • Optional: Swirl in melted chocolate before baking for a decadent twist.

Keywords: vanilla bean cheesecake, brown butter cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, homemade cheesecake, rich dessert, vanilla dessert