Are you ready to transform your dessert game with the most adorable and decadent bite-sized treats? Uncle Don's Mini New York Cheesecakes are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen! These perfectly portioned delights combine the classic, rich flavor of traditional New York cheesecake with the convenience of individual servings that are impossible to resist. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, or simply craving a luxurious sweet treat, these mini cheesecakes will elevate your culinary skills and impress everyone who takes a bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 mini cheesecakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure that your mini cheesecakes bake evenly and come out perfectly set.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated with the butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Evenly distribute the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup, pressing it down firmly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a solid crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Add 1 cup of sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
- One at a time, add 3 large eggs to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can introduce air bubbles.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crusts in the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the mini cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- After the cheesecakes have cooled to room temperature, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow them to set fully and develop flavor.
- When ready to serve, remove the mini cheesecakes from the muffin tin and peel off the paper liners. You can top them with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Uncle Don's Mini New York Cheesecakes!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Don't Overmix: When adding eggs, mix on low speed and just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles and cause cracking.
- Use a Light Touch with the Crust: When pressing the graham cracker mixture into the muffin cups, use firm but gentle pressure to create an even base.
- Check for Doneness: The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. They'll continue to set as they cool.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually. Sudden temperature changes can cause cracking.
- Refrigeration is Key: Chilling for at least 2 hours (or overnight) helps develop the flavor and ensures the perfect texture.
- Optional Decorations: Get creative with toppings like fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to make your mini cheesecakes even more impressive.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 125mg
