Irresistible Mini Cheesecakes: A Delightful Bite-Sized Treat
Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for a delightful, creamy, and perfectly portioned dessert, these Mini Cheesecakes are just what you need. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, these individual-sized cheesecakes are a crowd-pleaser. They feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and velvety cheesecake filling, and a beautifully golden top. Garnished with powdered sugar, fresh raspberries, and mint leaves, they’re both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
Unlike traditional cheesecakes, these mini versions require less baking time and chill faster, making them a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Best of all, they’re easy to customize—whether you prefer a classic vanilla flavor, a fruity topping, or a drizzle of chocolate, these cheesecakes are a perfect canvas for creativity.
Let’s dive into how to make these delectable Mini Cheesecakes step by step.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Cooling & Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For Garnish (Optional):
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into each liner and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or a small cup.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and let the crust cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Crack in the egg and beat on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
- Add the sour cream and flour, gently folding until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
- Evenly distribute the cheesecake filling among the prepared crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are just set. The tops may puff up slightly but will settle as they cool.
- Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool inside the muffin tin for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours to allow them to set properly.
- Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and top each cheesecake with a fresh raspberry and a mint leaf for an elegant finish.
These Mini Cheesecakes are a true delight, offering all the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake in a perfect bite-sized form. The combination of a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust with the smooth and velvety filling creates an irresistible dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as an everyday treat, these cheesecakes are bound to impress. The best part? You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings—think fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
So next time you’re craving cheesecake but don’t want to commit to an entire cake, give these Mini Cheesecakes a try! Their convenient size, quick baking time, and divine taste make them a must-have dessert for any occasion.
Happy baking! ✨