Tiny treats, huge flavor! These Mini Lemon Cheesecake Cups boast a golden, crunchy graham crust paired with a wonderfully tart yet sweet cream cheese filling.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1 large egg
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar; mix until well combined. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner.
Step 2: Bake the crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
Step 3: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla bean paste until just combined.
Step 4: Add the large egg and beat on low speed until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix to avoid adding too much air.
Step 5: Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the prepared crusts in the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Step 6: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still have a slight jiggle. Let cool completely in the muffin tin on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
To keep your Mini Lemon Cheesecake Cups perfectly fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; they're even more delightful on day two!
These lemon cheesecake cups are best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge; reheating is not recommended as it will alter their delicate texture and refreshing chill.
Elevate these zesty bites with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra lemon zest, or some vibrant fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and complementary sweetness.
For that perfectly smooth and dense cheesecake texture without cracks, remember to beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy first, then mix in the egg and lemon ingredients *just* until incorporated on low speed – overmixing introduces too much air, which is the enemy of a silky cheesecake!