Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes are a delightful, bite-sized twist on the classic dessert. With a creamy cheesecake filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a sweet cherry topping, these mini treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect portions: These individual cheesecakes are ideal for serving and sharing.
• Classic flavor combination: The tangy cheesecake, buttery crust, and sweet cherries are a match made in heaven.
• Customizable: Swap the topping to suit your preferences or the occasion.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare these in advance and store for easy entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Eggs

For the Topping:

• Cherry pie filling

Directions

1. Prepare the oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Make the crust:
   • In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
   • Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon to flatten it.
3. Prepare the filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
   • Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the cupcakes:
   • Spoon the cheesecake batter over the crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
7. Add the topping:
   • Spoon cherry pie filling onto the center of each cheesecake before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 12 cupcakes
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 20 minutes
• Chilling time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Different crusts: Use crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
• Alternate toppings: Swap cherry pie filling for strawberry, blueberry, or caramel sauce.
• Chocolate twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Lemon cheesecake: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cupcakes (without topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: These cupcakes are best served cold and do not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest texture.

2. How do I prevent the cheesecakes from cracking?

Ensure the ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter.

3. Can I make these without a crust?

Yes, simply skip the crust and bake the filling directly in the liners.

4. What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

You can use fresh fruit, preserves, or even chocolate ganache.

5. How do I know when the cheesecakes are done?

The centers should be slightly jiggly but set when you remove them from the oven.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in multiple muffin tins.

7. Do I need to use cupcake liners?

While not necessary, liners make the cupcakes easier to remove and serve.

8. How long can I keep them at room temperature?

Limit room temperature exposure to 2 hours to maintain freshness and food safety.

9. Can I add mix-ins to the filling?

Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or nuts for added texture.

10. Can I make mini versions?

Yes, use a mini muffin tin and adjust the baking time to 12–15 minutes.

Conclusion

Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes are a showstopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With their creamy texture, buttery crust, and sweet cherry topping, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether for a holiday gathering, birthday, or simple indulgence, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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