Mini Cheesecakes

Name: Mini Cheesecakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 graham crackers; 1/2 cup pecans (toasted); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup sugar; 1 pound cream cheese (room temperature); 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup sour cream

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

July 19, 2025

Updated:

July 19, 2025

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These Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect treat for any occasion! With their creamy filling and crunchy graham cracker pecan crust, they offer a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging yourself, these mini cheesecakes will impress everyone. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These mini cheesecakes are ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
Versatile Flavors: You can customize them with different toppings or add-ins to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Rich and creamy, these desserts are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Easy to Serve: Their small size makes them convenient for sharing and serving at events.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect mini cheesecakes, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Muffin tin
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Muffin tin: This is crucial for shaping your mini cheesecakes. It ensures even baking and perfect portions.
Electric mixer: A must-have for achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling without lumps.

Ingredients

These delicious mini cheesecakes with a crunchy graham cracker pecan crust bake up in no time and are almost too easy to make!

For the Crust

16 Grachicken ham Crackers (more if you’d like a thicker crust)
1/2 cup pecans (35g, toasted)
4 tbsp unsalted butter (56g, melted)
1/4 cup sugar (24g)
1/2 tsp cinnamon (1g)

For the Filling

1 pound cream cheese (454g, room temperature)
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar (200g)
1 tsp vanilla extract (5mL)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
2 egg yolks
1/3 cup sour cream

How to Make Mini Cheesecakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your mini cheesecakes bake perfectly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, crush the Grachicken ham crackers until fine.
Add toasted pecans, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon to the crumbs. Mix until well combined.
Press this mixture firmly into each muffin tin cup to form a crust base.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
Gradually add salt and sugar while continuing to mix until fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract followed by eggs and egg yolks one at a time. Ensure each is well blended before adding the next.
Finally, fold in sour cream until everything is combined.

Step 4: Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over each crust in the muffin tin. Bake in preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once done baking, let them cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours. Serve chilled for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Mini Cheesecakes

Mini cheesecakes are not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Toppings

Fresh Berries: Top your mini cheesecakes with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cheesecakes for a rich flavor contrast.
Caramel Drizzle: A sweet caramel topping adds a luxurious touch and complements the cheesecake’s creaminess.

Garnishes

Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes for a light and airy finish to each cheesecake.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint can enhance presentation and add a refreshing taste.

Serving Options

Mini Dessert Cups: Serve each mini cheesecake in a clear cup to showcase the layers and textures.
Cheesecake Bites: Cut into smaller pieces for a fun finger food option at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Mini Cheesecakes

Creating the perfect mini cheesecakes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your mini treats turn out delicious every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter without lumps, resulting in creamy cheesecakes.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mix to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks during baking.
Water Bath Baking: Bake your mini cheesecakes in a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracking on the surface.
Cool Gradually: Allow cheesecakes to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar; this reduces temperature shock that can cause cracks.
Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate your cheesecakes for at least 4 hours before serving; this enhances their flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Cheesecakes

Pairing side dishes with mini cheesecakes can enhance your dessert table. Here are some great options to consider:

Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheesecakes.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet notes of the cheesecakes beautifully.
Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses that offer contrasting flavors, adding sophistication to your dessert spread.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination pairs well with the creamy texture of mini cheesecakes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances sweetness perfectly.
Nutty Granola Bars: Serve these as an on-the-go option that complements the flavors of your cheesecake while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mini cheesecakes can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Bold phrase: Using cold ingredients – Cold cream cheese or eggs can result in a lumpy batter. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth and creamy texture.
Bold phrase: Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your mini cheesecakes. Mix just until combined for best results.
Bold phrase: Not preheating the oven – Baking mini cheesecakes in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your oven before placing them inside.
Bold phrase: Skipping the water bath – A water bath helps maintain moisture while baking and prevents cracks. If possible, use this technique for a perfect cheesecake texture.
Bold phrase: Ignoring cooling time – Allowing mini cheesecakes to cool slowly prevents them from cracking as they set. Let them cool in the oven with the door ajar for a bit before transferring them out.

Refrigerator Storage

Mini cheesecakes can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Place them in an airtight container to avoid absorbing any odors.
You can also cover each cheesecake with plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

Freezing Mini Cheesecakes

Freeze mini cheesecakes for up to 3 months.
Wrap each cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Label with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored.

Reheating Mini Cheesecakes

Bold phrase: Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cheesecakes on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
Bold phrase: Microwave – Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it may change the texture.
Bold phrase: Stovetop – Place mini cheesecakes in a pan with a little water and cover with a lid. Heat on low until warmed through, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mini Cheesecakes?

Mini cheesecakes are bite-sized versions of traditional cheesecake, typically baked in muffin tins or ramekins. They offer all the creamy goodness of cheesecake without needing large slices.

Can I make Mini Cheesecakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make mini cheesecakes up to 5 days ahead if stored properly in the refrigerator, or you can freeze them for later enjoyment.

How do I customize Mini Cheesecakes?

You can customize mini cheesecakes by adding different flavors such as chocolate, fruit purees, or even swirls of caramel. Toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries also add personal flair.

Are Mini Cheesecake Recipes easy?

Absolutely! Mini cheesecake recipes are generally straightforward and require minimal ingredients and steps, making them perfect even for beginner bakers.

Can I use premade crusts for Mini Cheesecakes?

Yes! Premade graham cracker crusts save time and effort. You can press them into muffin tins or use store-bought options designed specifically for mini desserts.

Final Thoughts

These mini cheesecakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Their small size makes them perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Feel free to customize your flavors and toppings to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by how easy it is to create these delightful treats!