Mini Cheesecake Hearts
Mini Cheesecake Hearts are delightful bite-sized desserts featuring a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for all occasions, these easy-to-make treats combine rich flavors with adorable heart shapes, making them a charming option for romantic dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a quick and delicious dessert.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 33 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or heavy cream (optional)
- Prepare the Crust: Combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs with 5 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Firmly press the mixture into the bottoms of a mini heart-shaped muffin tin or silicone molds, ensuring an even and compact layer that will form the crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add 1/3 cup granulated sugar, then mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add Optional Cream: For an extra creamy texture, gently fold in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or heavy cream. This step is optional but recommended for a richer mouthfeel.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts, filling each heart mold almost to the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still have a slight jiggle. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to develop and the texture to set. Carefully remove from molds before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and egg to ensure a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the center indicates perfect creamy texture once chilled.
- A silicone mold helps with easy removal and prevents cracking.
- Press crust firmly to avoid crumbly bottoms.
- Chill thoroughly to set the filling and enhance flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake heart
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: mini cheesecake hearts, bite-sized cheesecake, heart shaped dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, creamy cheesecake bites, holiday dessert, romantic dessert, gluten free cheesecake