Lemon Mini Cheesecakes
A refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake, these delightful bites feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious lemon filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs Crispy, buttery base.
- 2 tablespoons sugar To complement the crust.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Adds richness.
For the filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Provides the cheesecake texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar Enhances sweetness.
- 1 large egg Adds structure.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Infuses zesty brightness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest Adds aromatic lemon flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Rounds out the flavors.
- 1/4 cup lemon curd For topping.
- Fresh berries and mint leaves, for garnish Adds a vibrant touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner to form the crust. Bake for 5 minutes and set aside to cool.
Making the filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until fully combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crusts, filling each about 3/4 full.
Baking
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the centers are set. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Finishing touches
- Once cooled, spoon about 1 teaspoon of lemon curd on top of each cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. Refrigerating the cheesecakes for a few hours after cooling will enhance their firmness and flavor. You can swap the lemon for lime for a tropical twist or add a layer of fresh fruit puree for added depth.