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Mini Cheesecakes with Cranberry Jam & White Chocolate Mousse

Mini Cheesecakes with Cranberry Jam & White Chocolate Mousse


  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x

Description

These elegant mini cheesecakes are the ultimate holiday treat, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, tangy cranberry jam, and a luxurious white chocolate mousse. Topped with sparkling candied cranberries, they’re a stunning and delicious addition to any festive gathering!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – The base for the crust.
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crust together.
  • 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spiced flavor.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the filling.
  • 6 tbsp sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
  • 2 large eggs – Provides structure and richness.

For the Cranberry Jam:

  • 8 oz fresh cranberries – The main ingredient for the jam.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the tart cranberries.
  • 1/4 cup water – Helps cook the cranberries.
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice – Adds brightness.
  • 1 tsp orange zest – Enhances the citrus flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a hint of warmth.

For the White Chocolate Mousse:

  • 3.1 oz white chocolate, chopped – The base of the mousse.
  • 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream – Whipped to create a light, airy texture.

For the Candied Cranberries:

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries – The star of the garnish.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided – Used for coating and making the syrup.
  • 2 1/2 tbsp water – Helps create the syrup.

Instructions

Make the Crust:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini cheesecake pan or line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well moistened.
  • Divide the mixture among the mini cheesecake cups and press firmly to create a solid crust.
  • Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

  • In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
  • Add sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition—do not overmix.
  • Spread the filling evenly over the cooled crusts.
  • Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled.

3. Make the Cranberry Jam:

  • In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon.
  • Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the cranberries pop and the jam thickens.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely. For a smoother texture, blend the jam in a food processor or blender if desired.

4. Make the White Chocolate Mousse:

  • In a small saucepan, heat 3 1/2 tbsp of whipping cream over medium heat. Remove from heat just as the cream begins to foam (before it boils).
  • Add chopped white chocolate and stir until completely melted and smooth. Let cool to room temperature.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the remaining whipping cream until soft peaks form.
  • Gently fold the cooled white chocolate mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

5. Make the Candied Cranberries:

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a small saucepan, bring 2 1/2 tbsp of water and 2 1/2 tbsp sugar to a boil. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  • Add cranberries, remove from heat, and stir for 1 minute.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to the prepared baking sheet and let dry for 1 hour at room temperature.
  • Once dried, roll the cranberries in the remaining sugar. Work in batches to ensure even coating.

6. Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes:

  • Spread a layer of cooled cranberry jam on top of each cheesecake.
  • Transfer the white chocolate mousse to a piping bag and pipe it onto the cheesecakes.
  • Garnish with candied cranberries for a festive, sweet finish.

Notes

  • High CPC Keywords: mini cheesecakes, holiday desserts, cranberry cheesecake, white chocolate mousse, candied cranberries.
  • SEO Optimization: This recipe is optimized for search engines with high CPC keywords, clear headings, and structured content.
  • Engaging Content: The mix of short and long sentences, bullet points, and numbered lists ensures readability and engagement.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American