Brown Butter Vanilla Cheesecake
Brown Butter Vanilla Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the nutty depth of browned butter with the warm aroma of pure vanilla. This elevated cheesecake features a smooth, velvety texture and a buttery graham cracker crust, offering a perfect balance of flavor and indulgence ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free crust alternative)
Filling
- 24 oz (675 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, browned and cooled
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream or heavy cream
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Prepare the Brown Butter: Gently melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring consistently as it foams. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using.
- Make the Crust: Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set before adding the filling.
- Mix the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, stirring gently between additions to maintain an airy texture. Incorporate the cooled brown butter and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Finally, blend in the sour cream or heavy cream.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks during baking.
- Baking in a water bath helps maintain gentle, even heat and prevents cracking.
- Watch the butter carefully while browning to avoid burning — aim for a nutty golden color.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to solidify its texture and meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Brown Butter, Vanilla, Cheesecake, Dessert, Rich, Creamy, Nutty