The Best Mini Cheesecake Recipe – Easy, Creamy & Perfect Bite-Size Dessert

Cheesecake has always been one of my favorite desserts, but let’s be honest—making a full-sized one can be a bit much. Between the long bake time, the cooling, and the whole water bath situation, it’s not exactly what I’d call easy. And as a busy mom of three, I need easy. That’s why I love mini cheesecakes. They have all the rich, creamy goodness of a full-sized cheesecake but in a bite-size dessert that’s quick to make and even easier to eat.

If you’re looking for an easy mini cheesecake recipe that doesn’t require fancy techniques, you’re in the right place. These mini cheesecake bites are perfect for parties, family movie nights, or just when you need a little sweet treat without a ton of effort. Whether you call them cheesecake cupcakes, individual cheesecake cups, or miniature cheesecakes, they’re the same dreamy, creamy dessert in a small cheesecake recipe that takes way less time than a traditional cheesecake.

The best part? This is a basic cheesecake recipe that you can dress up however you like. Want the best mini cheesecakes with fresh fruit? Go for it. Feeling like cheesecake cake recipes with a drizzle of chocolate? Yes, please. Love a classic cheesecake recipe with just the right amount of tangy sweetness? You got it.

I’ve tried tons of cheesecake bites recipes over the years, and this is by far my favorite. It’s simple, creamy, and absolutely foolproof—no water bath, no cracks, no stress. Plus, it uses basic ingredients you probably already have at home. If you’ve been searching for the best cheesecake recipe ever, this might just be it.

Alright, let’s make some easy homemade cheesecakes—because life’s too short to wait hours for dessert!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full crackers, crushed)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 4 tbsp melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened (that’s two blocks)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries
• Chocolate sauce
• Caramel drizzle
• Whipped cream

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Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grab a muffin tin and line it with cupcake liners (trust me, it makes life easier).

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it looks like damp sand. Spoon a little into each muffin cup—about a tablespoon per cup—and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside while you work on the filling.

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Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. I usually let my cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before starting—otherwise, you’ll be fighting lumps, and nobody has time for that.

Mix in the vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cheesecakes crack, and while they’ll still taste good, we’re aiming for smooth and creamy.

Finally, stir in the sour cream. This is what makes the cheesecake extra creamy, so don’t skip it.

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Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. They won’t rise much, so don’t worry.

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the centers are set but still have a slight jiggle. They might look a little puffed up when they come out, but they’ll settle as they cool.

Let them sit on the counter for about 30 minutes, then move them to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better if you can wait that long).

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Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve

Once they’re chilled, it’s time for the fun part—toppings! Here’s where you can let your kids get creative. My three love different things, so I usually set out a few options:

• Sliced strawberries or blueberries for my fruit-lover
• Chocolate sauce for my little chocoholic
• Whipped cream and sprinkles for my kiddo who thinks every dessert needs sprinkles

Honestly, these mini cheesecakes are so good on their own, but toppings just take them up a notch.

FAQs About Mini Cheesecakes

Mini Cheesecakes Recipe Card