Description
These little cheesecakes are holiday joy in miniature: buttery graham cracker crusts, creamy peppermint-infused cheesecake filling, topped with whipped cream and a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy family nights.
Ingredients
Cheesecakes:
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ tsp peppermint extract
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1 large egg, room temperature
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¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
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¼ cup crushed peppermint candies/candy canes
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12 mini graham cracker crusts or cupcake liners
Topping:
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Whipped cream
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Extra crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners if not using pre-made crusts. Lightly spray liners for easy removal.
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Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Scrape sides to ensure even mixing.
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Add Flavor & Sweetness: Mix in sugar, vanilla, and peppermint extract on medium-low speed until incorporated.
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Incorporate Egg: Add the egg and mix just until blended. Avoid over-beating.
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Add Sour Cream: Mix in sour cream until batter is smooth and velvety.
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Fold in Candy: Gently fold in ¼ cup crushed peppermints, reserving a tablespoon for garnish.
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Fill Crusts: Spoon or pipe batter into mini crusts, filling about ¾ full.
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Bake: Bake 18–20 minutes. Centers should have a slight jiggle. Rotate pan halfway through for even baking.
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Cool & Chill: Let cool on wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
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Decorate: Before serving, top each mini cheesecake with whipped cream and sprinkle with reserved crushed peppermint.
Notes
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Cracks on Top: Usually due to oven too hot, over-mixed batter, or over-baking. Cover with whipped cream.
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Make Ahead: Chill overnight, add whipped cream and candy just before serving.
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Lumpy Filling: Likely from cold cream cheese. Let it soften completely next time.
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No Mini Crusts? Make your own with 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup melted butter, 1 tbsp sugar. Press ~1.5 tbsp per liner and bake 5 min at 350°F before filling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 cal Per Mini Cheesecake
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 20g