1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper or silicone cupcake liners.
- Make the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press it down firmly.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Remove and let them cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar:
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Vanilla, Sour Cream, and Heavy Cream:
- Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Fill the Cupcake Liners:
- Spoon the cheesecake filling over the baked crusts, filling each liner almost to the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are slightly set and the tops are just starting to crack.
- Cool:
- Remove the mini cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Add Toppings:
- Before serving, add your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, fruit compote, whipped cream, or chocolate ganache.
- Serve:
- Serve the Mini Cheesecakes chilled. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Mini Cheesecakes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the filling until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause the cheesecakes to crack.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecakes to chill completely in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Cheesecakes: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Cheesecakes: Mix 1/4 cup of melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Oreo Cheesecakes: Add crushed Oreos to the crust mixture and fold some into the filling for a cookies and cream variation.
Conclusion
Mini Cheesecakes are a delightful and versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy filling and customizable toppings, they’re sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Mini Cheesecakes lies in using room temperature ingredients, mixing the filling until just combined, and allowing them to chill thoroughly. By following this guide, you’ll create delicious and beautiful mini cheesecakes every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Mini Cheesecakes!