Description
These perfectly portioned cheesecake cups feature a rich, pecan-infused graham cracker crust and a silky, smooth cream cheese filling. They are the ideal small-batch dessert, offering a stress-free alternative to traditional cheesecakes with endless customization options.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
- In a food processor, pulse graham crackers, toasted pecans, sugar, and cinnamon until fine. Add melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press about two tablespoons of the crust mixture into each muffin liner and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
- In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth.
- Add the sugar and salt, mixing until combined, then scrape down the bowl.
- Mix in the sour cream and vanilla until the batter is glossy and uniform.
- Add eggs one at a time on medium-low speed, mixing just until the yellow disappears to avoid over-aeration.
- Scoop a quarter-cup of batter into each prepared crust.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes until the edges are set but the centers retain a slight, jelly-like jiggle.
- Cool in the pan to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Ensure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature for at least two hours before beginning to prevent lumps in your filling. For the best texture, use brick-style cream cheese rather than tub-style, and avoid over-whipping the batter once the eggs are added to prevent cracks during the cooling process.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American