Indulge in these delightful mini strawberry cheesecakes that are bursting with flavor and creamy goodness! The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping makes these treats a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These mini strawberry cheesecakes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without feeling too guilty. They are portion-controlled and make for a great dessert option for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. The fresh strawberries add a refreshing touch to the rich and creamy cheesecake, making it a delightful summer dessert.
Introduction
Mini strawberry cheesecakes are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, offering individual servings that are perfect for sharing or indulging in just the right amount of sweetness. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, these mini cheesecakes are sure to impress your taste buds and guests alike.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling: - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping: - 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup to form the crust. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream.
Step 4: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts in the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are just set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
COOKING Note:
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cheesecake, so mix until just combined.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these mini strawberry cheesecakes chilled for the best taste. Garnish with additional sliced strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling.
- Experiment with different fruit toppings like raspberries or blueberries for a variety of flavors.
- To easily remove the cheesecakes from the muffin tin, run a knife around the edges before popping them out.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
Conclusion
These mini strawberry cheesecakes are a delightful dessert option that combines the richness of cream cheese with the freshness of strawberries in a perfect bite-sized treat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these mini cheesecakes are sure to be a hit.
Q&A
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the topping?
- While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before tossing them with the jam.
- How long do these mini cheesecakes keep in the refrigerator?
- These mini cheesecakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time and freeze them?
- Yes, you can freeze these mini cheesecakes for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I use a different type of jam for the strawberry topping?
- Absolutely! You can swap the strawberry jam for any other flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or apricot, to customize the cheesecakes to your liking.
- How can I prevent cracks from forming on top of the cheesecakes?
- To prevent cracks, make sure not to overbake the cheesecakes and avoid overmixing the batter. Additionally, allowing the cheesecakes to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar can help prevent cracks from forming.
Enjoy making and savoring these delightful mini strawberry cheesecakes!
