Description
These decadent Mini Turtle Cheesecakes feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, and a rich caramel topping with toasted pecans and chocolate drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, these mini desserts combine all the classic turtle candy flavors in a cheesecake form!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
For the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Press down gently to form an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Divide the cheesecake filling evenly between the muffin cups on top of the cooled crust, filling each about 3/4 of the way full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecakes in the oven for an additional 10 minutes. Then, remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
For the Topping:
- Once the cheesecakes are chilled, drizzle each one with caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans on top of the caramel.
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, then drizzle over the pecans and caramel.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- To toast the pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
- For extra flavor, you can also add a pinch of salt to the caramel topping for a sweet-and-salty twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (for the cheesecake), plus refrigeration time
- Category: Dessert, Cheesecake, No-bake, Mini desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Turtle cheesecake, mini cheesecake, caramel, pecans, chocolate, dessert