Description
Delightfully creamy mini lemon cheesecakes with a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries for a refreshing dessert. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
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- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for garnish)
- Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
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- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease with butter/cooking spray.
- Evenly distribute the crust mixture into the muffin cups, pressing down firmly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add sour cream, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until just combined.
- Taste and adjust lemon flavor if desired.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Tap the muffin tin on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are set and center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecakes cool in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Carefully remove the cheesecakes from the muffin tin by lifting them out of the cupcake liners.
- Top each cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and fresh berries if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing burst of lemon flavor!
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Notes
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- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
- These mini cheesecakes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as chocolate ganache or fruit compote.
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- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes