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Crispy Mini Firecracker Cheesecakes

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These mini cheesecakes feature a crispy homemade graham crust, creamy filling, and a spicy-sweet firecracker topping. Perfect for any occasion, quick to make, and a crowd-pleaser with a surprising kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ cups (150g) graham crackers, finely crushed
  • 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 3 tbsp (40g) granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
  • ¼ tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
  • A pinch of sea salt flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Combine crushed graham crackers, 2 tbsp sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl until mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each cup of a 12-cup mini muffin pan.
  4. Bake the crusts for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  5. Beat softened cream cheese in a mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Slowly add ¾ cup sugar and continue beating until fluffy.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition but avoid overmixing.
  8. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
  9. Pour the filling gently over the baked crusts, filling about ¾ full.
  10. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are set but center still has a slight jiggle.
  11. Cool cheesecakes in the pan for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  12. Mix 3 tbsp sugar, chili powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and sea salt flakes in a small bowl.
  13. Sprinkle the firecracker topping generously over each chilled mini cheesecake just before serving.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Press crust firmly but not too tightly. Bake crust before adding filling to prevent sogginess. Avoid overmixing eggs to prevent cracks. Add firecracker topping just before serving to keep it crispy. For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecakes, firecracker topping, graham crust, easy dessert, spicy-sweet dessert, quick cheesecake, party dessert

Find it online: https://novanosh.com/crispy-mini-firecracker-cheesecakes-recipe-easy-homemade-graham-crust/