Description
These Mini Cheesecake Hearts are a cute, individual-sized twist on classic cheesecake, perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any time you want to indulge in something sweet and romantic. A buttery graham cracker crust is topped with a creamy, velvety cheesecake filling, all baked to perfection and shaped into adorable heart forms.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Topping (Optional):
- Fresh berries (such as strawberries or raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate or fruit sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly damp.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each mini cheesecake heart pan or muffin tin. Press down gently with a spoon to compact the crust.
- Bake the crust for about 5-7 minutes, until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
-
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
-
Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes:
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, filling each mold about 3/4 of the way full.
- Smooth the tops of the cheesecakes with a spatula.
-
Bake the Mini Cheesecakes:
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the centers are just set but still slightly jiggly. Be careful not to overbake.
- Let the cheesecakes cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Chill:
- Once the cheesecakes are completely cooled, refrigerate them for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best results.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Once chilled, remove the cheesecakes from the molds or muffin tin.
- Top with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, and a drizzle of chocolate or fruit sauce if desired.
- Serve and enjoy these adorable and delicious treats!
Notes
- If you don’t have a heart-shaped pan, you can use a regular muffin tin or mini tart pans.
- You can customize the toppings with your favorite fruit, or even add a little caramel or chocolate ganache drizzle.
- For a smoother filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 18-22 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking Cuisine: American
- Cuisine: American