Easy Mini Cheesecakes
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Deliciously creamy and easy to make, these mini cheesecakes are the perfect dessert for any occasion.
These Easy Mini Cheesecakes are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of traditional cheesecake with a fun, individual serving size. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sweet snack at home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
- Perfectly portioned for individual servings
- Versatile - top with fruits, chocolate, or caramel
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Mini cheesecakes are a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering, from birthday parties to holiday celebrations. Their small size makes them easy to serve and enjoy, allowing guests to indulge without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, they are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them a versatile dessert option to cater to all ages.
What sets these mini cheesecakes apart is their customizable nature. You can easily adapt the toppings to suit the theme of your event or the preferences of your guests. Whether you opt for fresh berries, rich chocolate ganache, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, each mini cheesecake can be transformed into a unique masterpiece.
Easy Preparation and Minimal Ingredients
One of the best things about this easy mini cheesecake recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings. The crust requires only graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, while the creamy filling is made with common staples like cream cheese and eggs.
In addition to being quick to make, these mini cheesecakes require minimal kitchen tools. A mixing bowl, muffin pan, and an electric mixer are all you need. This means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious creations with family and friends.
Versatile Serving Options
These mini cheesecakes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with presentation and flavor. For a refreshing touch, you can top them with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mango slices. If you're a chocolate lover, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or mini chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
You can also experiment with different flavors in the cheesecake filling itself. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of peanut butter can give your mini cheesecakes a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your guests. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your mini cheesecakes:
For the crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your mini cheesecakes:
Prepare the crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined muffin pan to form the crust.
Make the filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until well combined.
Fill the crusts
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts in the muffin pan, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Chill and serve
Once cooled, refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
For best flavor, let the cheesecakes chill overnight in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Mini Cheesecakes
To ensure your mini cheesecakes bake evenly, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added, as this can lead to cracks during baking.
Another tip is to allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually in the oven after baking. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, letting the cheesecakes sit inside for about 10 minutes. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks on the surface.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These mini cheesecakes can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for busy schedules. After chilling, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows you to prepare them in advance and simply add your desired toppings just before serving.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unadorned mini cheesecakes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add your favorite toppings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use crushed cookies or digestive biscuits as an alternative for the crust.
→ Can I freeze these mini cheesecakes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
→ How do I prevent cracking on the cheesecake surface?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure the oven temperature is not too high. Also, avoid opening the oven door too frequently while baking.
Easy Mini Cheesecakes
Deliciously creamy and easy to make, these mini cheesecakes are the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 mini cheesecakes
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined muffin pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts in the muffin pan, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Once cooled, refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g