Petite Cherry Cheese Cakes
Delicious mini cherry cheese cakes featuring creamy filling topped with sweet cherry pie filling, perfect for parties or special occasions, combining smooth cheese and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Line muffin pans with cupcake liners and place one vanilla wafer in the bottom of each liner.
- Fill each lined muffin cup two-thirds full with the cheese mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until set.
- Allow the cheesecakes to cool.
- Top each cheesecake with one tablespoon of cherry pie filling.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the vanilla wafers with graham crackers for a different flavor. If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute in place of regular sugar. To enhance the lemon flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the batter. This dessert pairs beautifully with Aunt Zulma'S Orange Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These petite cherry cheesecakes make a delightful dessert for parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness. For a refreshing twist, consider serving with fresh fruit or a light fruit salad. They can also be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy them after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Petite Cherry Cheese Cakes contains roughly 161 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different fruit topping?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruit toppings like blueberry, strawberry, or even a mixed berry compote for a unique flavor. Just ensure the topping complements the creamy cheesecake base.
Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
Yes, these cheesecakes can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare, bake, and chill them as directed, then top with cherry pie filling just before serving. This will help maintain the freshness and presentation of the dessert.
What if I don't want to use eggs?
If you're looking for an egg-free version, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth. This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the texture creamy and delicious.
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).