Get ready to transport your senses straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with these irresistible Mardi Gras Mini Cheesecakes! These bite-sized delights are not just a dessert, but a celebration of flavor, color, and festive spirit. Perfect for your next party or when you want to add a touch of Louisiana excitement to your dessert table, these mini cheesecakes are guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. With their creamy texture, buttery graham cracker crust, and optional festive decoration, they're about to become your new favorite indulgence!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 12 mini cheesecakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Press approximately 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner, using the back of a spoon to create a firm, even crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even incorporation.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until the batter is completely smooth and no lumps remain.
- Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optional: Decorate with purple, green, and gold sprinkles or icing to match the Mardi Gras theme before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free batter.
- Don't Overmix: When adding eggs, mix just until incorporated to prevent a dense, tough cheesecake.
- Water Bath Alternative: If you want extra-creamy cheesecakes, place the muffin tin in a larger pan with about 1 inch of hot water during baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cheesecakes to cool gradually to prevent cracking. The slow cooling helps maintain a silky texture.
- Decorating Tip: Use colored sugar or sprinkles in traditional Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold) for an authentic carnival look.
- Make Ahead: These mini cheesecakes can be prepared 2-3 days in advance, making them perfect for party planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 95mg
