Description
These Mini Cheesecakes III are creamy, rich, and perfectly portioned individual cheesecakes with a buttery graham cracker crust. Baked to a smooth, slightly golden finish and chilled for the best texture, they’re ideal for parties or a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy removal and clean-up.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup white sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup white sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
- Fill the Cups: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crusts in the muffin cups, filling each almost to the top but leaving a little room for rising.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the mini cheesecakes are set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center and have a slight golden color on top.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecakes to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let them firm up and develop better flavor and texture.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Be sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling and to avoid lumps.
- Do not overbake; the centers should still be slightly jiggly to ensure creamy texture after chilling.
- Use muffin paper liners for easy removal and serving.
- Chilling is essential for the best texture and flavor; do not skip.
- Customize toppings with fresh berries, fruit compote, or chocolate drizzle depending on your preference.
