Combine the rich flavors of pecan pie with the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake in these delightful Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes. Perfect for gatherings or as a refined dessert option, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress with their decadent crust, lush cheesecake filling, and a caramelized pecan topping.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Base:
- Finely Crushed Graham Crackers: 1 ½ cups
- Light Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Unsalted Butter, Melted: 1/3 cup
For the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Cream Cheese, Room Temperature: 16 oz.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
- Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Sour Cream: 2 tablespoons
- Eggs, Gently Whisked: 2
For the Pecan Topping:
- Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Light Brown Sugar: ½ cup
- Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Heavy Cream: ¼ cup
- Pecans, Toasted and Finely Chopped: 1 cup
Directions
- Prepare Oven and Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line a standard 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners.
- Make the Graham Cracker Base:
- Mix crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Stir in melted butter until well combined.
- Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each liner, forming a base.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Gently mix in eggs.
- Spoon the mixture over the crusts in the cupcake pan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until centers are set but slightly wobbly.
- Cool for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping:
- In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar.
- Add cinnamon, salt, and heavy cream; let bubble for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in toasted chopped pecans and cool for 10 minutes.
- Spoon over cooled cheesecakes.
Tips
- Cheesecake Ingredients: Ensure all cheesecake ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- Toasting Pecans: Toast pecans in a dry skillet to enhance their flavor before adding to the topping.
- Festive Touch: For a festive touch, add a splash of bourbon to the pecan topping.
FAQs
- Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
- Yes, these cheesecakes can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days. Add the pecan topping just before serving to maintain texture.
- How can I prevent the cheesecakes from cracking?
- Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure the cheesecakes are not overbaked to prevent cracking.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes are the perfect treat for those who love the combination of nutty pecans and creamy cheesecake. Each mini cheesecake offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a hit at any event or a special indulgence for a night in. Enjoy crafting these exquisite desserts that are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat!