Cherry Lime Mini Cheesecakes Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8-10 graham crackers)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp lime zest (about 1-2 limes)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: Fresh cherries and lime slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use a small glass or spoon to pack it down firmly.
- Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated (don’t overmix).
- Spoon the filling over the cooled crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
3. Bake the Cheesecakes:
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
4. Add the Cherry Topping:
- Once chilled, top each mini cheesecake with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
- Garnish with fresh cherries or lime slices if desired.
Tips:
- For a homemade cherry topping, simmer 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries with 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until thickened.
- Use key limes for an extra tangy flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Enjoy these zesty, creamy, and fruity mini cheesecakes!