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Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes

Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes

Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes are delightful, creamy individual-sized desserts bursting with fresh orange flavor and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for spring celebrations, these cheesecakes offer a bright citrus twist, smooth texture, and easy sharing, ideal for Easter brunch, picnics, or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (from about 1 orange)
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of mini cupcake tins or silicone molds to form a sturdy crust base.
  2. Make the Orange Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in fresh orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream if using, until the filling is silky and well combined.
  3. Fill the Molds: Divide the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crusts, filling each mold almost to the top while allowing space for the mixture to rise during baking.
  4. Bake Your Mini Cheesecakes: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18-22 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly to ensure a creamy texture without overbaking.
  5. Chill and Set: Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor integration.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Mix just until combined to avoid cracking and maintain a light texture.
  • Fresh orange zest and juice provide the best citrus flavor compared to extracts.
  • Consider baking in a water bath or placing a pan of water in the oven to prevent cracking.
  • Chill thoroughly for optimal flavor development and firmness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecakes, orange cheesecake, Easter dessert, spring dessert, citrus cheesecake, individual cheesecake, gluten free dessert