Mini Cheesecakes

Mini cheesecakes are a delightful treat that combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the convenience of individual servings. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these little desserts are sure to impress. The smooth texture and customizable toppings make mini cheesecakes a favorite, whether for a birthday party, holiday celebration, or a simple weekend indulgence.

Emily

Mini Cheesecakes

Mini cheesecakes combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the convenience of individual servings, perfect for gatherings or cozy indulgence.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Filling Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth texture.
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of cupcake liners set in a muffin pan to form crusts.
3. In another bowl, whip together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream until perfectly combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crusts in the muffin pan.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the center is set.
7. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.
8. Top with your favorite toppings before serving.

Notes

Mini cheesecakes can be topped with chocolate sauce, fruit preserves, fresh berries, whipped cream, or crushed nuts. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of mini cheesecakes. They’re simple to make, budget-friendly, and sure to please both kids and adults alike. These treats require minimal preparation and bake up quickly, making them ideal for spontaneous gatherings or a sweet ending to a family dinner. The best part is, you can customize them with your favorite toppings or incorporate different flavors, transforming each batch into a new experience.

“These mini cheesecakes are so delightful! Perfectly creamy and just the right portion size. My guests couldn’t get enough!”

How to Make Mini Cheesecakes

Creating these mini cheesecakes involves a few straightforward steps. First, you’ll prepare the crust, then whip up the rich cheesecake filling, and finally bake them to perfection. Each step is easy to follow, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve excellent results.

Ingredients

Gather these items to start making your mini cheesecakes. You will need:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream

If you’re looking to make substitutions, you can try using gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version, or swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Directions to Follow

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of cupcake liners set in a muffin pan to form crusts.
3. In another bowl, whip together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream until perfectly combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crusts in the muffin pan.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the center is set.
7. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.
8. Top with your favorite toppings before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Mini cheesecakes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can top them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a spoonful of fruit preserves, or a medley of fresh berries. For a richer experience, consider adding whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts. Try serving them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy, comforting dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your mini cheesecakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to store them longer, they freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture.
2. Don’t overmix once you add the eggs, as this can lead to cracks.
3. Use a water bath when baking for extra moisture and a creamy texture.
4. If you’re short on time, consider pre-made graham cracker crusts to save effort on preparation.

Recipe Variations

There are countless ways to add a twist to your mini cheesecakes. You can incorporate crushed Oreo cookies into the crust for a cookies-and-cream flavor or mix in lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing citrus variation. For chocolate lovers, swirl in melted chocolate into the batter before baking. You could also consider making a pumpkin spice version for fall gatherings or adding a hint of peppermint extract for the holidays.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these mini cheesecakes?
Preparation time is around 20 minutes, and baking takes another 15-20 minutes. Including cooling time, plan for about 2.5 hours total.

Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or try different flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or chocolate.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecakes?
Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added and consider using a water bath to maintain moisture during baking.

For more delicious treats, you might enjoy checking out our other recipes like Protein Muffins or traditional Bento Cake Recipe.

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Meta Description: Indulge in these delightful mini cheesecakes for any occasion. Simple to make, budget-friendly, and customizable to please everyone.