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Ultimate Vanilla Bean Brown Butter Cheesecake

A rich and creamy cheesecake infused with the unique flavors of brown butter and vanilla bean, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened Ensure it is at room temperature.
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 unit vanilla bean, seeds scraped
  • 3 large eggs Add one at a time.
  • 1 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour Helps stabilize the filling.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the browned butter

  • ½ cup unsalted butter Melt and brown until fragrant.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all the ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature.

Cooking the crust

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined.
  • Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

Preparing the filling

  • Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until browned. Let cool slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  • Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds to the cream cheese, and mix until combined.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Mix in sour cream, flour, salt, and the cooled browned butter until smooth.

Baking

  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
  • Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool for 1 hour.

Chilling and serving

  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  • Run a knife around the edge of the springform pan before removing the sides. Serve chilled.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. You can freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
Keyword Baking, Brown Butter, Cheesecake, dessert, Vanilla Bean