Bite-Sized Cheesecakes Recipe

Crust Ingredients:

• 16 Graham Crackers (for a thicker crust, add more)
• 1/2 cup (35g) pecans, toasted
• 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (24g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (1g) cinnamon

Cheesecake Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5mL) vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup sour cream

Instructions:

For the Crust:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cupcake pans with liners.
2. Making Crust: In a food processor, blend Graham crackers and toasted pecans until finely crushed. Add sugar and cinnamon, pulsing until well combined. Gradually add melted butter, pulsing until the mixture is moistened. Use a spatula to ensure butter is fully incorporated if needed.
3. Forming Crusts: Distribute the crust mixture evenly among cupcake liners, pressing down to form a solid base. Bake for 8 minutes until set and golden. Let cool.

For the Cheesecake:

1. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until creamy. Add sugar and salt, mixing until smooth. Scrape down the sides as necessary.
2. Adding Ingredients: Incorporate sour cream and vanilla into the mixture. Then, add eggs and yolks one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Mix until the mixture is completely smooth.
3. Filling Cups: With an ice cream scoop, fill the prepared crusts in the cupcake liners about 3/4 full with the cheesecake mixture.
4. Baking: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes. Then, turn off the oven, leaving the door closed, and let the cheesecakes rest inside for an additional 20 minutes. Remove and allow to cool to room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

• These mini cheesecakes can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Avoid adding whipped cream to warm cheesecakes to prevent melting.
• Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, melted chocolate, or your favorite pie filling before serving.

This simplified version of Mini Cheesecakes keeps the delightful essence of the original recipe while ensuring clear and straightforward instructions for an enjoyable baking experience. Perfect for any occasion, these mini treats offer the classic cheesecake flavor in a convenient, single-serving size.