Have you ever wondered what makes a dessert go viral? In the realm of desserts, few recipes have captured the hearts and taste buds of millions quite like Easy Mini Cheesecakes, which have racked up 20 million views online. With their creamy texture and deliciously versatile flavors, it’s no wonder these little delights have become a staple for gatherings, parties, and sweet cravings. In this post, we’ll dive into how to create these mouth-watering mini cheesecakes, so you too can impress your friends and family!
Ingredients Needed
To create your Easy Mini Cheesecakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cup biscuit crumbs: This provides the perfect crunchy base. You can use digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or even gluten-free options if desired.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Just the right amount of rich flavor to bind the crumbs and add moisture.
- 10.5 oz full-fat cream cheese (room temperature): The star of the cheesecake! Room temperature cream cheese mixes more easily and creates a smooth filling.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Acts as a binder and contributes to the cheesecake’s rich texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: This aromatic flavor elevates your cheesecakes, making them irresistible.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a hint of acidity that enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the filling, keeping it from falling flat.
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature): Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
Timing
Preparing Easy Mini Cheesecakes is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
This super-efficient time frame is about 20% less than what many similar recipes require, allowing you to satisfy your sweet tooth more quickly.
How to Make Easy Mini Cheesecakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 320ºF (160ºC). This is a crucial step to ensure your cheesecakes cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Pan
Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. This makes the cheesecakes easy to remove after baking and adds a lovely presentation.
Step 3: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit crumbs and melted butter until well blended. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Press this blend firmly into the bottom of each muffin liner, creating a solid crust. Use the bottom of a glass to ensure it’s evenly packed.
Step 4: Create the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add the sugar, mixing until it’s fully incorporated. Then add in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Blend in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour. Finally, mix in the sour cream until completely smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Pan
Evenly distribute the cream cheese filling over each crust in the muffin pan, filling almost to the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Your cheesecakes are done when they are slightly set around the edges but still a bit jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Chill
Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to the fridge to chill for at least one hour. Chilling helps set the cheesecakes and enhances their flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each mini cheesecake contains approximately:
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 3g
Healthier Alternatives For Easy Mini Cheesecakes
If you’re looking for a healthier twist on these mini cheesecakes, consider the following substitutions:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for reduced fat and added protein.
- Replace granulated sugar with stevia or coconut sugar to cut down on calorie count.
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese to reduce fat content without sacrificing too much creaminess.
- Introduce fruit purees such as mango or berry, to replace some of the cream cheese for a fruity flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Your Easy Mini Cheesecakes are delightful on their own, but here are some creative serving suggestions:
- Top with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or seasonal berries to add color and freshness.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
- Sprinkle with nuts like crushed almonds or pecans for added crunch.
- Serve with whipped cream for an extra creamy experience.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them:
- Skipping the room temperature step: It’s essential for smooth mixing. If time is an issue, you can place cold ingredients in a warm water bath to speed this along.
- Overmixing the filling: This can introduce excess air, leading to gaps during cooling. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
- Not chilling enough: Rushing the chilling process can lead to a runny texture. Patience is key.
Storing Tips For Easy Mini Cheesecakes
To keep your mini cheesecakes fresh:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual cheesecakes*: They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Conclusion
Easy Mini Cheesecakes are not only a delightful treat but also simple to make. After crafting this delicious recipe that has garnered 20 million views, you’ll be well-equipped to impress family and friends at your next gathering. Don’t wait any longer! Try out this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheesecakes dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and butter with dairy-free alternatives to create a delicious dairy-free version.
Can I use a different pan instead of a muffin pan?
Yes! You can use a regular cake pan. Just adjust the baking time, and watch for doneness.
How do I know when the cheesecakes are done?
Look for a slightly jiggly center and set edges. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add flavor variations?
Definitely! You can incorporate melted chocolate, coffee, or flavored extracts to switch things up.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecakes?
Cooling the cheesecakes slowly in the oven by turning it off after baking can help prevent cracking.
Print
Easy Mini Cheesecakes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Mini Cheesecakes are creamy, delicious, and a favorite for gatherings, boasting 20 million views online.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup biscuit crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 10.5 oz full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 320ºF (160ºC).
- Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit crumbs and melted butter until blended. Press into the bottom of each muffin liner.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour. Finally, mix in sour cream.
- Distribute the cream cheese filling over each crust in the muffin pan, filling almost to the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the edges are set but the center is jiggly.
- Cool for 10 minutes before chilling in the fridge for at least one hour.
Notes
For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat cream cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheesecake
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg