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.
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- 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