Perfectly Portioned Mini Cheesecakes with a Buttery Crunch!
✨ Introduction
These New York Cheesecake Cupcakes deliver all the rich, creamy decadence of classic cheesecake in adorable individual servings! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and velvety smooth filling, they’re:
✅ No water bath needed (easy baking!)
✅ Perfect for parties (no slicing required)
✅ Customizable with endless topping options
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Fruit preserves or chocolate drizzle
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners.
- Mix crust ingredients until crumbs are moistened.
- Press 1 tbsp crumbs into each liner (use a spoon to compact).
- Bake 5 mins, then cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth (~1 min).
- Add sugar, mix until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, sour cream, and flour. Mix just until combined—don’t overbeat!
3. Bake & Cool
- Divide filling among liners (almost to the top).
- Bake 18–20 mins until centers just set (slightly jiggly).
- Turn off oven, crack door, and let sit 10 mins (prevents cracking).
- Chill 2+ hours before topping.
🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecakes
🍓 Topping Ideas:
- Lemon curd + blueberries
- Salted caramel + pecans
- Oreo crumbs + chocolate ganache
🔥 Baking Secrets:
- Room temp ingredients prevent lumps.
- Underbake slightly—they firm up while chilling.
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips:
- Store unfrosted in fridge up to 3 days.
- Freeze (without toppings) for 1 month. Thaw overnight.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or pretzels mixed with butter.
2. Why did my cheesecakes crack?
- Overbaking → Check at 18 mins.
- Rapid temperature change → Cool gradually in oven.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use GF graham crackers and 1:1 GF flour.
4. How do I remove liners cleanly?
- Spray liners lightly with oil first.
- Peel slowly after chilling.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use two muffin tins and rotate pans halfway through baking.
🍰 Final Thoughts
These cheesecake cupcakes are foolproof, portable, and irresistibly creamy—ideal for baby showers, holidays, or a sweet solo treat!
“All the luxury of cheesecake, none of the sharing guilt!” 😉
Tag us in your photos! 📸 #CheesecakeCupcakeMagic
