Introduction
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these delightful Grinch Mini Cheesecakes! With a rich, creamy filling colored a fun shade of green and a buttery graham cracker crust, these mini desserts are perfect for parties or cozy gatherings. Topped with cute red candy hearts, they bring a whimsical touch to your festive dessert table. Easy to make and fun to share, these cheesecakes will surely become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- Green food coloring
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- Red candy hearts or M&Ms for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, creating cozy little homes for your mini cheesecakes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner, forming a sturdy crust that will hold all the deliciousness inside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy—a treat for your senses already!
- Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, and peppermint extract until everything is wonderfully blended and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain that velvety texture!
- Now, it’s time for the fun part! Gradually add green food coloring until you achieve your desired Grinch green shade. Don’t forget to taste the batter—it’s a holiday classic!
- Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the crusts in the muffin tin, filling each liner about 3/4 full for the perfect little bites.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set but still a bit jiggle—these will firm up nicely as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Chill the mini cheesecakes in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This step is crucial for developing that creamy texture!
- Finally, just before serving, top each mini cheesecake with a red candy heart or an M&M for a festive touch that everybody will love!
Notes or Tips
- If you’d like an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or crushed candy canes to the batter.
- These mini cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead of time. Just pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to share!
- Feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to your liking for a subtle or bold minty flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a few straightforward cooking techniques perfect for beginners, such as mixing, pressing, and baking. Remember to mix your cream cheese thoroughly for a silky-smooth texture in your cheesecake. Pressing the crust firmly ensures it holds together beautifully while you enjoy these treats!
FAQ
- Can I freeze these mini cheesecakes? Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container before freezing.
- Can I substitute the sour cream? Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist while maintaining that delightful creaminess.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days—if they last that long!
Conclusion
These Grinch Mini Cheesecakes are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. With their festive charm and delectable flavor, they are sure to bring smiles to your holiday celebrations. Bake up a batch, share them with friends and family, and watch as they become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!