Miniature Holiday Cheesecakes
Miniature holiday cheesecakes are creamy, tangy treats with a lemon flavor, topped with preserves. Perfect for festive gatherings and individual dessert servings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place wafers flat side down on the bottom of each of the 18 foil baking cups.
- Combine cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, lemon peel, and vanilla, mixing at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the mixture into the baking cups, filling each almost full.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan.
- Chill the cheesecakes in the refrigerator.
- Top each cheesecake with preserves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese. You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor. To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecakes in a water bath. Check out No Fail Muffins for more dessert ideas.
Serving Suggestions
These miniature holiday cheesecakes can be topped with fruit preserves, whipped cream, or fresh berries for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter garnished with mint leaves. They make a delightful dessert alongside other holiday treats like Ma-Maw'S Chocolate Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then serve cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miniature Holiday Cheesecakes contains roughly 234 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
Yes, these mini cheesecakes can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are properly chilled and stored in the refrigerator. Adding toppings just before serving will keep them looking fresh and appealing.
How do I know when the cheesecakes are done baking?
The cheesecakes are done when the edges are set, but the centers still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks in the surface.
Can I make these cheesecakes gluten-free?
Yes, to make these cheesecakes gluten-free, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers. Always check the labels on your cream cheese and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).