Cheesecake Cupcakes

Introduction:
These Cheesecake Cupcakes are the perfect blend of creamy, rich cheesecake and a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re an ideal treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it’s from a bakery.

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Reasons to Love This Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe:

• Individual Servings: Perfectly portioned, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
• Versatile Toppings: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote for extra flavor and color.
• Make-Ahead: These cupcakes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, allowing you to prep in advance.

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Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: Fresh berries or fruit compote for topping

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Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions:

• Crust Variations: Try using digestive biscuits, gingersnap cookies, or even a gluten-free cookie base.
• Flavor Twists: Add lemon zest or a spoonful of raspberry jam to the cream cheese mixture for a burst of flavor.
• Topping Alternatives: Instead of fresh berries, try a drizzle of caramel sauce or melted chocolate.

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Tools You’ll Need:

• Muffin tin and cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spoon or ice cream scoop for portioning
• Cooling rack

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
2. Make the Cheesecake Mixture: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crusts in each cupcake liner, filling them almost to the top.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the centers are almost set. Let them cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
6. Cool and Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours or until ready to serve.
7. Serve: Top with fresh berries or fruit compote before serving, if desired.

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What to Serve with Cheesecake Cupcakes:

Pair these cheesecake cupcakes with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a delightful treat after dinner. They also go beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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How to Store Cheesecake Cupcakes:

Store these cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavor improves as they sit, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

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Can I Freeze Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Yes! These cupcakes freeze wonderfully. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. For the creamiest result, full-fat cream cheese is preferred.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients and bake in batches if necessary.
• What if I don’t have cupcake liners? You can grease the muffin tin directly, but cupcake liners make the cupcakes easier to remove.

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Two Resources for More Cheesecake Inspiration:

1. Sally’s Baking Addiction: A trusted source for perfecting your cheesecake-making skills with detailed tips and variations.
2. The Kitchn: Offers a wealth of information on cheesecake crusts, flavor variations, and baking techniques.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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Conclusion:

These Cheesecake Cupcakes offer a rich and creamy dessert in a fun, individual portion size. They’re simple to make and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these little treats are sure to be a hit!

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