Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the crust mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down firmly to form a compact crust at the bottom of each cup.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Dragon Fruit Puree: Mix in the dragon fruit puree until well combined. If desired, strain the dragon fruit puree to remove seeds before adding.
- Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and lime zest (if using), blending until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the crusts in the muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top.
- Bake Cheesecakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cheesecakes to a wire rack to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and firm.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish each mini cheesecake with fresh dragon fruit slices or cubes for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy these delightful Dragon Fruit Mini Cheesecakes chilled as a refreshing dessert.
Tips for Perfect Dragon Fruit Mini Cheesecakes:
- Dragon Fruit Puree: To make the dragon fruit puree, simply scoop out the flesh of ripe dragon fruit and blend until smooth. Strain if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Crust Variation: If you prefer a different crust, you can use crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits mixed with melted butter and sugar.
- Storage: Store leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cheesecakes can also be frozen for longer storage.
These Dragon Fruit Mini Cheesecakes are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful taste experience with their unique tropical flavor. Enjoy making and savoring these mini treats!