There is something absolutely magical about these Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe that makes them a standout dessert for any occasion. Imagine a perfectly baked, creamy cheesecake nestled on a buttery cookie crust, topped with fresh, vibrant strawberries and a cloud of whipped cream. These tiny treasures offer rich flavor, delightful texture, and an irresistible presentation that’s sure to wow your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this recipe combines simplicity and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the buttery crust to the creamy filling and tangy strawberries on top, every component is essential to this delightful dessert.
- Crushed butter cookie crumbs: These form the crunchy, buttery base that gives your mini cheesecakes structure and richness.
- Melted butter: Works with the cookie crumbs to hold the crust together firmly once baked.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the show, providing that silky, tangy creaminess essential to cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the cream cheese’s natural flavor.
- Large egg: Binds the filling ingredients and helps achieve a smooth, set texture during baking.
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel to the cheesecake batter.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness and a subtle zing to balance the creamy sweetness.
- Whipped cream: A light and airy garnish that complements the dense cheesecake.
- Chopped strawberries: Fresh, juicy, and colorful, they provide a delightful tartness and visual appeal on top.
How to Make Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because a properly preheated oven ensures your cheesecakes bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture—creamy inside with slightly puffed edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine your crushed butter cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir these together until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture looks like wet sand. This blending guarantees a buttery crust that holds its shape perfectly after baking.
Step 3: Form the Crust in Muffin Liners
Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to make removing your mini cheesecakes a breeze. Divide the crumb mixture evenly among 8 liners and press it down firmly to form a compact base. A tightly packed crust creates the ideal foundation, adding that delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
Grab another bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Incorporate the lemon juice, egg, and heavy whipping cream, mixing just until combined. The filling should be silky and luscious without overmixing to keep the texture light.
Step 5: Fill the Crusts
Carefully spoon the cream cheese filling over each crust, dividing the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Don’t overfill, as the cheesecakes will puff up slightly as they bake.
Step 6: Bake Your Miniature Cheesecakes
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Your cheesecakes are done when the centers are just set and the edges look delicately puffed and slightly golden. This timing ensures a creamy interior that isn’t overcooked.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Remove the tin from the oven and allow the cheesecakes to cool completely at room temperature while still in the tin. Once cooled, transfer them to the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling step is key for the filling to set perfectly, giving you that satisfying firmness without losing creaminess.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Right before serving, top each miniature cheesecake with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped strawberries. The whipped cream adds an airy contrast to the cheesecake’s richness, while the strawberries provide juicy freshness and a pop of vibrant color.
How to Serve Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes you choose can elevate your mini cheesecakes from delightful to downright stunning. In addition to the whipped cream and chopped strawberries, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or a dusting of powdered sugar to create an elegant finish that entices every guest.
Side Dishes
While these cheesecakes shine as a standalone dessert, they pair wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a refreshing sorbet to cleanse the palate. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé complements their creamy texture and sweet-tart flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe part of a dessert platter by arranging them on a pretty serving tray surrounded by extra strawberries and edible flowers. Alternatively, serve each mini cheesecake in individual clear cups topped with berry compote for a modern presentation that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their creamy texture and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze these miniature cheesecakes for longer storage by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, avoid reheating baked cheesecakes. Instead, let them thaw and serve chilled. If you prefer them slightly warm, a few seconds in the microwave on low power will do, but be careful not to melt the filling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for the Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe?
Absolutely! While crushed butter cookie crumbs provide a buttery crunch, you can swap them for graham cracker crumbs, digestive biscuits, or even crushed pretzels for a salty contrast. Just adjust the butter amount slightly to ensure the crust holds together well.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream on hand, you can use sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt as alternatives. These will add creaminess and a slight tang, though the texture might be a bit denser compared to using heavy cream.
How do I know when the mini cheesecakes are done baking?
Look for centers that are just set, with a slight jiggle when gently shaken, and edges that are lightly puffed and golden. Overbaking can make the cheesecake dry, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked and let them set fully during chilling.
Can these cheesecakes be made dairy-free or vegan?
To make a dairy-free or vegan version, try using vegan cream cheese and a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream. The crust can remain the same if the butter is replaced with a vegan alternative. Keep in mind, the texture and flavor may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make these mini cheesecakes without a muffin tin?
Though a muffin tin with liners is ideal for shaping and baking, you can use small ramekins or even silicone baking cups if you don’t have one. Just ensure that whatever you use can withstand oven heat and provides a similar size shape for uniform baking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe enough for anyone craving a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as charming as it is tasty. These delightful little cheesecakes bring together simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create something truly special. So why wait? Grab your mixing bowls and oven, and make your day sweeter with these perfect mini treats!
Print
Miniature Baked Cheesecakes with Strawberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 mini cheesecakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Miniature Baked Cheesecakes are individual-sized treats featuring a buttery cookie crumb crust and a rich, creamy filling with a hint of lemon. Perfect for dessert servings at gatherings or a simple indulgence, topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups crushed butter cookie crumbs
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- â…“ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Toppings
- Whipped cream (as needed)
- Chopped strawberries (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the cheesecakes bake evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed butter cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form Crusts: Line 8 muffin tin sections with cupcake liners. Divide the cookie crumb mixture evenly among the liners and press down firmly to create compact crusts at the base of each.
- Make Filling: In another mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add in the lemon juice, egg, and heavy whipping cream. Mix until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is silky.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the cream cheese filling over each prepared crust in the muffin tin, dividing the mixture evenly between the 8 sections.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the centers are just set and the edges look slightly puffed.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool in the muffin tin. Once at room temperature, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to set the filling completely.
- Serve: Just before serving, top each mini cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped strawberries. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth batter.
- Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when serving.
- Chilling the cheesecakes is essential to achieve a firm texture.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor, but other berries can be substituted.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cookie crumbs.
