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For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup sour cream
For the Mixed Berry Compote:
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, etc.)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of your berries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
How to Make Mini Cheesecakes with Mixed Berry Compote
These mini cheesecakes are simple to prepare but pack a lot of flavor. Here’s how to make them:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Make the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should feel slightly wet but crumbly.
- Press the Crust Into the Tin: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each muffin tin liner. Press the crumbs down firmly using the back of a spoon or your fingers to form a solid crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crusts are golden. Set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Add the sugar and beat until smooth. Then, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add Flour and Sour Cream: Stir in the flour and sour cream, mixing until smooth and well combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crusts, filling each muffin liner about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Mini Cheesecakes
- Bake: Bake the mini cheesecakes at 325°F (163°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set and the edges are slightly golden. They should have a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool: Allow the cheesecakes to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the tin and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
Step 4: Make the Mixed Berry Compote
- Cook the Berries: In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken the Compote: If you’d like a thicker compote, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the berry mixture. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool: Allow the compote to cool to room temperature. The compote will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 5: Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes
- Top with Compote: Once the mini cheesecakes have chilled, spoon a generous amount of the mixed berry compote on top of each cheesecake.
- Serve: Serve the cheesecakes immediately, or keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a decorative touch.
Tips for the Best Mini Cheesecakes with Mixed Berry Compote
- Make-Ahead Option: These mini cheesecakes can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just top with the compote right before serving for the best freshness.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Berries: Fresh berries work wonderfully, but you can also use frozen berries. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the compote.
- Customize the Compote: Feel free to experiment with different berry combinations or even add a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier or amaretto, to give the compote an extra depth of flavor.
- Smooth Cheesecake Texture: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
Why Mini Cheesecakes with Mixed Berry Compote Are a Must-Try
These Mini Cheesecakes with Mixed Berry Compote are the perfect way to enjoy a decadent cheesecake in individual portions. They are the ideal balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet, and the homemade berry compote adds a fresh, flavorful touch that makes each bite special.
Not only are these mini cheesecakes a treat for the taste buds, but they’re also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant, jewel-toned berry compote adds a stunning contrast to the smooth, white cheesecake, making them a showstopper at any gathering.
If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple dessert to serve to friends, family, or guests, these mini cheesecakes will undoubtedly make an impression. Give them a try today and enjoy a sweet treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
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