Mini Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecakes Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1.5 cups (165 g) of chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces (454 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (99 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup (135 g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping:
- ½ cup (85 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions:
- Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 18-cup standard muffin pan with paper liners.
- Mix the chocolate graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Blend in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined.
- Evenly distribute the crust mixture among the muffin cups, pressing firmly into the bottom of each using the back of a spoon or measuring cup. Set aside.
- Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using a mixer.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix each addition just until incorporated, taking care not to over-mix.
- Baking:
- Spoon the filling evenly over the crusts in the muffin cups.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to level the filling and eliminate air bubbles.
- Bake for 17-19 minutes or until the cheesecakes are set and the centers slightly jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and let the cheesecakes cool inside for 2-3 minutes. Then remove from the oven and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preparing the Topping:
- Combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt these ingredients together over a double boiler.
- Spoon the chocolate peanut butter mixture over each mini cheesecake, tilting to cover the tops evenly.
- Chilling:
- Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or up to a day, before serving.
Enjoy your homemade mini peanut butter cup cheesecakes as a delightful treat!