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Mini Cheesecake Hearts

Mini Cheesecake Hearts
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Mini Cheesecake Hearts are adorable, bite-sized creamy treats featuring a smooth, rich cheesecake filling on a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, parties, or casual gatherings, they come together quickly with simple ingredients and can be easily customized with various crusts, toppings, and flavors. These delightful desserts offer perfect portion control, making them an irresistible and shareable sweet to enjoy or gift.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
  • Chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
  • Fruit preserves
  • Honey drizzle

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of heart-shaped silicone molds or a mini muffin tin lined with heart-shaped paper liners to create an even crust layer.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, blending everything until well combined but without overbeating.
  3. Fill the Molds: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in each mold, filling just below the rim to leave space for slight expansion during baking. Use a spoon or piping bag for neat and even distribution of the batter.
  4. Bake: Bake the cheesecakes at 325°F (160°C) for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still slightly jiggle, ensuring a creamy texture once cooled.
  5. Chill and Decorate: Allow the Mini Cheesecake Hearts to cool to room temperature after baking, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or overnight. Before serving, add your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a honey drizzle.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to avoid lumps and create a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix the filling to prevent cracks during baking.
  • If possible, bake using a water bath to prevent cracking and achieve silky texture.
  • Use quality ingredients like real vanilla extract and full-fat cream cheese for best flavor.
  • Cool cheesecakes gradually to keep their texture intact and prevent cracking.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecake, heart-shaped dessert, bite-sized cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, Valentine's Day dessert

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/mini-cheesecake-hearts/