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Mini Lemon Cheesecakes Recipe

4.5 from 54 reviews

These Mini Lemon Cheesecakes are creamy, tangy, and perfectly portioned for individual servings. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling, they are an elegant yet simple dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ cup melted butter (unsalted or salted)

For the cheesecake filling:

  • 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • Zest of one large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or silicone cups. In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup to form an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt on low speed until smooth and creamy.
  3. Assemble and bake: Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crusts, filling nearly to the top but leaving some space to prevent overflow. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18-20 minutes, until centers are set but slightly jiggle when shaken. Remove from oven, cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Be sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Do not overbake the cheesecakes to maintain a creamy texture.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Paper liners or silicone cups help in easy removal of the mini cheesecakes.
  • The optional cinnamon in the crust adds a subtle warmth and depth.

Keywords: mini lemon cheesecakes, individual cheesecakes, lemon dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake