Mini Caramel Cheesecakes

Mini Caramel Cheesecakes

Prepare to be delighted by these mini caramel cheesecakes! With just three simple ingredients in the base, they are a breeze to make. We’re captivated by their irresistible flavor, luxurious texture, and above all, how astonishingly EASY they are to whip up! These little treats are a true testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Refrigerate: 2 hours
Servings: 24 mini cheesecakes

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 12 whole crackers*
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Mini Cheesecakes:

• 16 oz cream cheese, two 8oz packages, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk

Topping:

• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon to garnish, optional

Instructions

How to Make the Crust:

Prep:

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F and line a 24-count muffin tin with standard cupcake liners.

In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of innamon. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

2. Divide the crumb mixture between the 24 cupcake liners, placing about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner.

3. Use a small spoon or your fingers to press the crumbs firmly into the base and slightly up the sides of each liner.

How to Make Mini Cheesecakes:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together 16 oz of cream cheese and 3 eggs on high speed for 5 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

2. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the bowl and mix on low speed for about 2 minutes, until everything is thoroughly combined.

3. Divide the cheesecake mixture evenly between the cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full (or using a level ice cream scoop for each one).

4. Bake the cheesecakes at 350˚F for 15 minutes. They should be set with a very slight jiggle in the center. Avoid over-baking, as this can cause them to crack. If you notice any cracking in the oven, they are likely overdone.

5. Allow the cheesecakes to cool to room temperature in the baking dish. Once cooled, spoon 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce over each cheesecake.

6. Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.

7. Before serving, top each cheesecake with whipped cream using a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. For an extra touch of flavor, lightly dust with cinnamon if desired.

8. These mini caramel cheesecakes can be served with or without liners, depending on your preference.

How to Make Whipped Cream:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cold heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

2. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes thick and fluffy.

Notes:

1. Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use GF crackers/cookies for the crust, or simply omit the crust altogether and proceed with the recipe as directed. While the crust aids in even rising, the cheesecakes still taste delightful without it.

2. Cook’s Tip: When mixing the condensed milk, utilize the low speed setting to eliminate excess air bubbles. This helps prevent the cheesecakes from cracking during baking.

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