🧀 Mini Cheesecakes Made in a Muffin Pan
A simple mini cheesecake recipe made in a standard muffin pan with a graham cracker crust. Creamy, bite-sized, and perfect for parties or make-ahead desserts.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 18 minutes mins
Cooling/Chill Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 38 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 mini cheesecakes
Calories 210 kcal
12-cup muffin pan
Paper muffin pan liners
Mixing bowl
Stand mixer
Cookie scoop
Measuring cups/spoons
Spatulas
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 cup cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets, crushed)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese softened (2 blocks)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 pinch salt (optional but recommended)
Optional Toppings (for serving)
- Fresh berries
- Fruit compote or jam
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel sauce
Prep the pan
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
Lightly spray the liners with nonstick spray (optional, but helps release).
Make the crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
Add about 1 tablespoon crust mixture to each liner.
Press firmly into an even layer (use the bottom of a small glass or spoon).
Bake crusts for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
Make the filling
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth (about 1 minute).
Add sugar and mix until combined and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each.
Mix in vanilla, sour cream (if using), and salt (if using). Don’t overmix.
Fill & bake
Divide filling evenly between cups (about 2–2½ tablespoons each), filling ¾ full.
Bake 16–18 minutes, until edges are set and centers still jiggle slightly.
Cool & chill
Cool in the pan for 30 minutes.
Transfer (still in liners) to the fridge and chill at least 2 hours before serving.
Add toppings just before serving.
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Doneness tip: The edges should be set, but the center should still have a gentle jiggle. They firm up while chilling.
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Avoid cracks: Use room-temp ingredients and mix on low. Overmixing adds air and can cause cracks.
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Make-ahead: These are even better the next day.
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Freezing: Freeze plain cheesecakes (no toppings) in an airtight container up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 150mgSugar: 13g
Keyword bite sized cheesecake, mini cheesecake recipe, mini cheesecakes, mini desserts, muffin pan desserts, party desserts