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The Best Mini Cheesecake Recipe

4.9 from 137 reviews

These delightful mini cheesecakes offer a rich, creamy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for individual servings. Easy to prepare and bake in a muffin pan, they are ideal for gatherings or a special dessert treat. Finished with whipped cream and fresh fruit, these mini cheesecakes provide a classic and elegant indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup (113g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz full fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • ½ cup (99g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs

Toppings

  • Whipped cream
  • Fresh fruit

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Line a regular sized muffin pan with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of this crumb mixture into each muffin cup and use a 1/3 cup measure or a similar tool to firmly press the crumbs down, creating an even crust layer. Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from oven and let them cool while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together in a bowl until smooth and creamy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  3. Add the Eggs: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until each yolk breaks and the mixture is combined. Avoid over beating to prevent air bubbles and cracking during baking.
  4. Fill and Bake: Evenly distribute the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crusts in the muffin cups, filling each liner completely. Bake in the oven at 350º F for 15-17 minutes, or until the centers are just slightly jiggly to the touch.
  5. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature. Then transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, loosely covered with plastic wrap to preserve freshness.
  6. Serve: Before serving, top each mini cheesecake with whipped cream and fresh fruit or your choice of chocolate ganache for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Do not overbeat the eggs to prevent cracks and unwanted air bubbles in the cheesecake.
  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Using muffin liners makes removal and serving easier.
  • Chilling the cheesecake overnight improves texture and flavor integration.
  • Feel free to customize toppings with berries, citrus zest, or chocolate.

Keywords: mini cheesecake, individual cheesecake, graham cracker crust, easy cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe