Creating Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Cupcakes can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Prepare the Cupcake Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon a tablespoon of cupcake batter into each liner, followed by a tablespoon of cheesecake filling, and then top with another tablespoon of cupcake batter.
8. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Chill: Once cooled, place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to set the cheesecake filling.
11. Caramelize the Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each cupcake. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and crispy.