Description
These Mini Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecakes are a delightful treat combining a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a surprise peanut butter cup center. Perfectly portioned in a muffin pan, these cheesecakes are ideal for parties, snacks, or any sweet craving. The rich peanut butter flavor pairs beautifully with the tangy cheesecake for an irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/3 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 10 Tbsp salted butter, melted
Cheesecake
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Additional
- Peanut butter cups (one for each cheesecake)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Line a muffin pan with paper liners to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Make the Crust. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted salted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Mix until evenly combined and the texture resembles wet sand. Evenly distribute this mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner, gently pressing down to form a compact crust.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup sugar and the all-purpose flour, continuing to beat until light and fluffy. Then add the beaten egg and vanilla extract, mixing until thoroughly combined without overmixing.
- Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes. Place one peanut butter cup in the center of each crust-lined muffin cup. Pour the cheesecake batter over each peanut butter cup, filling the liners to just below the top.
- Bake the Cheesecakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture.
- Cool and Chill. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer the cheesecakes to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the peanut butter cups with mini chocolate bars or chopped nuts for variation.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense or cracked cheesecakes.
- Refrigerating properly is key for the texture and flavor development.
- Use paper liners specifically for baking to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
