Description
Paula Deen’s Mini Cheesecake brings classic Southern charm to bite-sized dessert perfection. Creamy, rich cheesecake nestles in delicate graham cracker crusts, promising a delightful sweet experience you’ll savor with each elegant mini indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- ¼ cup (60g) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
Crust Ingredients:
- ⅔ cup (80g) graham cracker crumbs (about 5 ½ full sheet graham crackers)
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
Flavoring Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350°F / 177°C and arranging a standard 12-count muffin pan with 9–10 protective paper liners to ensure easy removal of the mini cheesecakes.
- Craft the foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium mixing bowl until the mixture reaches a sandy consistency. Firmly compress approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each liner, then briefly pre-bake for 5 minutes to enhance structural integrity.
- Create the creamy filling by utilizing a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Whip cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until achieving a smooth, velvety texture. Incorporate sour cream, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice, blending thoroughly. Gently introduce the egg, mixing on medium speed until just combined, maintaining a thick batter consistency.
- Distribute the prepared batter evenly among the prepared liners, filling each with approximately 1 tablespoon of the luxurious mixture.
- Position the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, monitoring until the edges become firm while the centers retain a slight trembling motion.
- Allow the mini cheesecakes to cool within the pan atop a wire rack for 30 minutes. Transition them to the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 24 hours for optimal setting. If extending chilling time beyond 2 hours, loosely cover the delicate desserts. Anticipate a subtle central depression, perfect for accommodating additional toppings.
- Personalize and preserve by adorning with preferred garnishes such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle immediately before serving. Refrigerate any remaining delicacies in a sealed container for up to 5 days, maintaining their delectable quality.
Notes
- Cooling transforms these mini delights into creamy, rich treats that melt in your mouth with decadent smoothness.
- Refrigeration helps the cheesecake set perfectly, developing deeper flavors and creating a luxurious texture.
- Gentle mixing prevents air bubbles from causing unsightly surface cracks during baking.
- Compact crust provides a sturdy foundation that holds together beautifully when you take a bite.
- Bringing ingredients to room temperature ensures silky-smooth filling without any unwanted lumps or texture inconsistencies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg