why make this recipe
Mini cheesecakes are small, simple, and fast. They give the same creamy taste as a full cheesecake but bake quicker and serve easily. They work well for parties, snacks, or a quick dessert. They are great for beginners and kids who help in the kitchen.
introduction
This recipe makes a batch of easy mini cheesecakes with a graham cracker crust and creamy filling. You can change toppings to match your taste. If you like small, handheld dishes, you might also enjoy easy mini chicken pot pie muffins as another bite-size treat.
how to make Mini Cheesecakes
Make the crust first, press it into liners, then mix the filling and bake. Chill the cheesecakes so they set well. Finish with sour cream or any topping you like.
Ingredients :
1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, 16 oz cream cheese, softened, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, Sour cream or toppings of choice
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in each liner, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until the centers are set.
- Let cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Serve with sour cream or your choice of toppings.
how to serve Mini Cheesecakes
Take them from the fridge and add a spoon of sour cream, jam, fresh fruit, or chocolate. Serve chilled on a plate. They are best cold.
how to store Mini Cheesecakes
Cover the cheesecakes and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then move to a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
tips to make Mini Cheesecakes
- Press the crust firmly so it holds.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake; centers should be mostly set.
- Chill fully before removing liners to keep shape.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices if needed.
variation (if any)
- Add lemon or lime zest to the filling for a citrus twist.
- Mix in chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the filling.
- Use different crusts: Oreo crumbs for a chocolate base.
- Top with fruit compote, caramel, or nut brittle.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without cupcake liners?
A: Yes. Grease the muffin tin well and press the crust in. Let cool before removing.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the texture may be less creamy. Full-fat gives the best texture.
Q: How do I know they are done?
A: The centers should be set but slightly jiggly. They will firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I bake them in a water bath?
A: For mini cheesecakes it is not necessary, but you can place the muffin tin on a larger pan with hot water to reduce cracking.
Mini Cheesecakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy mini cheesecakes with a graham cracker crust and creamy filling, perfect for parties and quick desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Sour cream or toppings of choice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in each liner, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until the centers are set.
- Let cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Serve with sour cream or your choice of toppings.
Notes
Press the crust firmly to hold, use room temperature cream cheese, and do not overbake for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheesecake
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg