Irresistible Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

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Have you ever tasted a dessert that makes your heart sing? The Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is one of those delightful treats that combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of fresh cherries. Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy cheesecake filled with luscious cherry topping and a graham cracker crust that adds the perfect crunch. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.

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This recipe will guide you through creating these stunning mini cheesecakes, ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, these cheesecakes are sure to impress your guests. They are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. You can prepare them ahead of time and serve them chilled for maximum enjoyment. Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Decadent Flavor Combination: The pairing of chocolate and cherries creates a unique taste experience that is both rich and refreshing. Each bite offers creamy cheesecake balanced perfectly with sweet-tart cherries.
  • Perfect Portion Control: These mini cheesecakes are ideal for serving at parties or gatherings. Their small size makes them easy to enjoy without guilt while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
  • Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cheesecakes in no time. They require minimal ingredients and effort, making them accessible even for novice bakers.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these cheesecakes as they are or customize them with different toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings. They can easily adapt to suit various occasions.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of your cheesecake crust. Choose finely crushed crumbs for an even texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
  • Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling; ensure it’s softened before mixing for smooth results.
  • Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake filling; adjust according to your taste preference.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the cheesecake beautifully.
  • Eggs: Eggs help set the filling; use large eggs at room temperature for best results when baking.
  • Cherry Pie Filling: This adds sweetness and fruitiness on top of your cheesecake; look for high-quality options or homemade versions.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or greasing it lightly with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Divide this mixture evenly among muffin cups, pressing it firmly into the bottom for a solid crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture while blending on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix as this can result in cracks during baking.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Tins

Spoon the cream cheese mixture over each crust in the muffin tin until nearly full. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Top

Allow cheesecakes to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least two hours. Once chilled, add cherry pie filling on top just before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with melted chocolate for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a smoother batter.
  • Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cheesecakes while baking; they should be slightly jiggly in the center when done as they will firm up during cooling.
  • Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating your cheesecakes enhances their flavors; allow them at least two hours in the fridge before serving.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Using stale ingredients: When making Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake, it’s crucial to use fresh ingredients. Stale cream cheese or expired chocolate can ruin the texture and flavor of your cheesecake. Always check the expiration dates before you start baking. Using fresh cherries is equally important since they provide the best flavor and sweetness for your dessert. Fresh ingredients help ensure a creamy, delicious cheesecake that everyone will love.
  • Overmixing the batter: Another common mistake is overmixing the cheesecake batter. While it might seem like a good idea to ensure everything is combined, too much mixing can incorporate air into the batter. This leads to cracks on the surface of your Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake as it bakes. Mix just until combined for a smooth and creamy result without unwanted air bubbles.
  • Skipping the chilling time: Patience is key when making Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake. Skipping or shortening the chilling time can lead to a soft and runny cheesecake that won’t hold its shape. Allow your cheesecakes to chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or ideally overnight. This will help them set properly and develop their flavors, resulting in a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions for Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

This Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • A dollop of whipped cream: Adding whipped cream enhances the creamy texture and adds a delightful touch of sweetness to each bite.
  • Fresh cherries: Top your cheesecake with fresh cherries for a burst of flavor and natural sweetness that complements the rich chocolate.
  • Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top for an elegant presentation and an extra dose of chocolate indulgence.

FAQs

FAQs about Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

What makes Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake special?

Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors. The tangy cherry topping contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy chocolate base. This dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Its mini size makes it ideal for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a delightful treat without feeling overwhelmed by a large slice.

Can I make Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake ahead of time. In fact, making this dessert a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once you assemble the cheesecakes, simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Just add any toppings right before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

What variations can I try with Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake?

There are plenty of creative variations you can explore. You could swap out cherries for other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for different flavor profiles. Alternatively, consider adding a hint of mint extract for a refreshing twist or incorporating crushed cookies into the crust for added texture. Each variation will bring something unique while keeping the essence of the cheesecake intact.

How should I store leftover Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake?

To store any leftover Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They usually last about three days when stored properly. If you’ve topped them with fresh fruit or whipped cream, it’s best to add those just before serving to maintain their quality. For longer storage, consider freezing them without toppings.

Conclusion for Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

In summary, the Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with tart cherries, creating a perfect dessert experience. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them after dinner, these mini cheesecakes offer convenience without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare them ahead of time and customize them with different toppings or fruit variations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini cheesecakes 1x

Description

Indulge in the heavenly blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries with this delightful Mini Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake recipe. Each individual cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy chocolate filling, and is topped with sweet cherry pie filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. These mini desserts are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties or a sweet treat after dinner. With their stunning presentation and mouthwatering taste, these cheesecakes will impress your guests and satisfy any sweet cravings. Each bite offers a luxurious experience that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press into the muffin cups to form the crust.
  3. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth; gradually mix in sugar and vanilla.
  4. Add eggs one at a time while mixing on low speed until just combined.
  5. Spoon the cheesecake mixture over each crust and bake for about 20 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
  6. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours. Top each cheesecake with cherry pie filling before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 235
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

 

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