Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
For the Crust:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup, for the base.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted, to bind the crust.
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons, for a touch of sweetness.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream Cheese: 16 oz (2 blocks), softened, for a creamy texture.
- Sugar: ½ cup, to sweeten the filling.
- Eggs: 2 large, to bind the mixture.
- Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, for a tangy kick.
- Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon, for enhanced flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, to balance the citrus.
For the Topping:
- Lemon Curd: ½ cup, store-bought or homemade.
- Whipped Cream: Optional, for garnish.
- Lemon Slices or Zest: For decoration.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press a small amount of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner, packing it down firmly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each liner, filling about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecakes cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Add the Lemon Topping
- Once the cheesecakes are cool, spread a layer of lemon curd over the top of each one.
- Garnish with whipped cream, lemon zest, or a small slice of lemon for decoration.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours to set the topping and enhance the flavors.
- Remove the liners before serving for a clean presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes