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Mini Cheesecakes

Mini Cheesecakes

Mini Cheesecakes are delightful bite-sized desserts featuring a rich, creamy cream cheese filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly portioned and easy to customize with various toppings, these cheesecakes suit any occasion from parties to casual family treats. They are simple to make, make-ahead friendly, and visually charming, offering a creamy texture with a sweet, crunchy base.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Filling

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing graham crackers finely, then combine with melted butter and a touch of sugar. Press this mixture evenly into mini muffin tins to form a sturdy base that will hold your cheesecakes together.
  2. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream, making sure the mixture is creamy and free of lumps for that perfect velvet texture.
  3. Fill the Crusts and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in each muffin cup, filling nearly to the top. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 18-22 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles, ensuring a creamy center.
  4. Cool and Chill: Allow the mini cheesecakes to cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and the texture to firm up beautifully.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, add your choice of toppings such as fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or caramel drizzle to make your mini cheesecakes even more irresistible.

Notes

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps in mixing the batter smoothly without lumps.
  • Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbaking prevents cracks and keeps the filling creamy.
  • Press Crust Firmly: Ensures the base stays intact when removing cheesecakes from the pan.
  • Cool Gradually: Let cheesecakes cool slowly to reduce chances of sinking or cracking.
  • Chill Properly: Refrigeration enhances flavor and texture; be patient before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecakes, bite-sized desserts, cream cheese dessert, party desserts, easy cheesecake, make-ahead dessert