Mini Lemon Cheesecakes

Prep Time

• Prep: 25 minutes

• Bake: 25 minutes

• Chill: 3 hours

Servings

Makes 8 mini cheesecakes.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 3 tbsp melted butter

• 2 tbsp sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1/3 cup sour cream

• 2 tbsp heavy cream

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tbsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish

• Lemon slices

• Powdered sugar

• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.

3. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.

4. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner.

5. Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

2. Add sugar and mix well.

3. Add eggs one at a time.

4. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla.

5. Stir until silky smooth without overmixing.

Step 3: Bake

1. Pour cheesecake filling over the crusts.

2. Fill each cup nearly to the top.

3. Bake for 18–22 minutes until the centers are slightly jiggly.

4. Turn off oven and leave cheesecakes inside for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Chill

1. Remove from oven and cool completely.

2. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best texture.

Step 5: Decorate & Serve

1. Dust with powdered sugar.

2. Top with lemon slices and mint leaves.

3. Serve chilled.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.

• Do not overbake; the center should still wobble slightly.

• Chill overnight for the creamiest texture.

Flavor Variations

Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake

Top with blueberry sauce before serving.

Lemon Coconut Cheesecake

Add shredded coconut to the crust.

Honey Lemon Cheesecake

Replace part of the sugar with honey for a softer citrus sweetness.

Why This Dessert Is So Popular

These mini lemon cheesecakes combine rich creamy texture with fresh citrus flavor in perfectly portioned servings. The buttery crust, tangy lemon filling, and powdered sugar topping create a refreshing dessert that feels light yet indulgent.