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Mini Dessert for Parties That Disappears Fast - Bite-Size Cheesecake Cups

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 24 servings

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of fine salt
  • For the filling:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Toppings (choose your favorites):
  • Fresh berries, berry jam, or lemon curd
  • Salted caramel, chocolate ganache, or Nutella
  • Crushed nuts, toasted coconut, or mini chocolate chips
  • Tools: 12-cup muffin tin, paper liners, mixing bowls, hand mixer or stand mixer, spoon or small scoop

Instructions
 

  • Prep the pan: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Make the crust: Stir graham crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until evenly moistened. It should feel like damp sand.
  • Press and bake: Divide the crust mixture among cups (about 1 heaping tablespoon each). Press firmly with the back of a spoon. Bake 5–6 minutes, then cool slightly.
  • Beat the filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl.
  • Add the rest: Beat in eggs one at a time on low speed. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Fill the cups: Spoon the batter over crusts, filling each about 3/4 full. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
  • Bake: Bake 15–18 minutes, until edges are set and centers still jiggle slightly. They’ll finish setting as they cool.
  • Cool and chill: Cool in the pan 20 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Chill at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for best texture.
  • Top and serve: Add your favorite toppings right before serving. Keep them bite-size friendly.