Description
These Patriotic Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect bite-sized party treat! Creamy vanilla cheesecake topped with fresh berries creates a red, white and blue dessert everyone will fight over.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
- 3 tablespoons (42g) granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ¼ cup (60g) sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup (150g) fresh blueberries
- 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) strawberry or raspberry jam, warmed
- Optional: whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add melted butter and mix until evenly moistened.
- Divide crust mixture among muffin cups (about 1 tablespoon each) and press firmly with the back of a measuring spoon.
- Bake crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from oven and cool slightly.
- Beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-low speed until completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add sugar and continue beating until well incorporated and slightly fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until each is incorporated, scraping down the bowl between additions.
- Gently fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until just combined.
- Divide cheesecake batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until edges are set but centers still have a slight jiggle.
- Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecakes cool in the oven for about 10 minutes before removing.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, arrange blueberries and sliced strawberries on top in a patriotic pattern.
- Brush berries lightly with warmed jam for shine and added flavor.
- If desired, add a small dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.