Description
Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes are the ultimate fusion of two classic desserts! These bite-sized delights feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a caramelized pecan pie topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply treating yourself, these mini cheesecakes are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 10 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
- 1½ cups graham crackers, crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Divide the mixture evenly into 12 lined muffin tins, pressing it down firmly to form a crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to flatten.
- Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crusts, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
3. Prepare the Pecan Topping
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
- Add 8 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Stir and cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the toasted, chopped pecans. Let the topping cool slightly before spooning it over the cheesecake batter.
4. Bake the Cheesecakes
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
- Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool at room temperature.
5. Chill and Serve
- Once the cheesecakes have cooled, refrigerate them for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight for the best results.
- Remove the cheesecakes from the liners, garnish with whipped cream, extra chopped pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and serve!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each cheesecake in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Flavor Twist: Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the pecan topping for an extra burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American