Description
Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes are delightful bite-sized treats that combine creamy cheesecake with a bright and tangy citrus twist. Perfectly portioned and easy to make with simple ingredients, these festive cheesecakes bring a refreshing orange flavor and charming presentation to your Easter celebrations. Ideal for family gatherings or festive indulging, they offer a balanced flavor profile and versatile customization options.
Ingredients
																
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			Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookie crumbs for gluten-free option)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or dairy-free butter substitute)
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (or plant-based cream cheese for dairy-free version)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Optional Toppings
- Candied orange peel
- Whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves
- Chocolate drizzle
- Fresh berries (raspberries or blueberries)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the base of mini cupcake liners or a muffin tin to form the crust for each cheesecake.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add fresh orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually beat in eggs one at a time until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Fill the Mini Cups: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crusts, filling each cup almost to the top to create puffy mini cheesecakes after baking.
- Bake and Cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-18 minutes, until edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly. Allow cheesecakes to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, add optional toppings such as candied orange peel, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh mint leaves to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks and dense texture.
- Chill cheesecakes thoroughly to set properly and enhance flavor.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and avoid overfilling to keep the crust crisp and prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the brightest and most natural citrus flavor.
- To make dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cookies or almond flour in place of graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: mini cheesecake, orange cheesecake, Easter dessert, bite-sized cheesecake, citrus dessert, gluten free cheesecake, holiday treats
