Description
These delightful Mini Lemon Cheesecakes with Raspberry Sauce are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth lemon-infused cream cheese filling, each cheesecake is topped with a vibrant raspberry sauce and fresh raspberries for a refreshing finish. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a special dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Raspberry Sauce
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottoms of a lined or greased mini muffin tin to form the crust base.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and continue to mix until fully combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Fill the crusts: Spoon or pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crusts in the mini muffin tin, filling each about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake the mini cheesecakes: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the cheesecakes for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers slightly jiggle. Remove from oven and cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set completely.
- Prepare the raspberry sauce: Combine raspberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until raspberries break down and the mixture thickens. Optional: Stir in lemon juice for added brightness. Strain the sauce through a fine sieve to remove seeds, if desired. Let cool.
- Serve: Remove the mini cheesecakes from the tin. Top each with a spoonful of raspberry sauce, fresh raspberries, and a dollop of whipped cream if using. Enjoy chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Let the cheesecakes chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
- If using frozen raspberries for the sauce, thaw them before cooking.
- You can line the mini muffin tin with paper liners for easier removal.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
