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- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 2 cups cream cheese, softened - 1 cup heavy whipping cream These three ingredients create a rich and creamy base for your mini lemon cheesecakes. The graham cracker crumbs add a nice crunch, while the cream cheese gives it a smooth texture. Heavy whipping cream makes it light and fluffy. - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Fresh lemon juice and zest bring that bright, zesty flavor. The vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, balancing the tartness of the lemon. This combination makes every bite refreshing. - Fresh berries - Lemon slices Adding fresh berries and lemon slices on top makes your cheesecakes look beautiful. They also add a pop of color and extra flavor. You can choose your favorite berries, like strawberries or blueberries, to make it your own. For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, check out the Full Recipe! - In a bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. - Stir until it feels like wet sand. - Spoon the mixture into mini cheesecake cups or muffin tins. - Press it down firmly to make a solid base. - Place the cups in the fridge while you make the filling. - In a large bowl, beat 2 cups of softened cream cheese until smooth. - Gradually mix in 1 cup of powdered sugar, blending well. - Add 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, the zest of 1 lemon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. - Mix everything until it is fully combined and creamy. - In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. - Keep folding until no streaks remain. - Spoon the lemon filling into the chilled crusts. - Smooth the tops as you go, tapping the cups gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. - Cover the mini cheesecakes and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best set. For a complete guide, check out the Full Recipe. To get a creamy filling, start with softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to beat it until smooth. This helps to prevent lumps. Add sugar slowly while mixing. This step helps blend everything well. To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, avoid overmixing. Once you add the whipped cream, fold it gently. Stirring too much can add air. Air causes cracks when the cheesecake sets. If you want to reduce sugar, try using less powdered sugar. You can also use honey or maple syrup as alternatives. These options add sweetness without processed sugar. For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess and lowers fat. You can also try using stevia or monk fruit sweetener. These are good options for lower-calorie treats. The minimum refrigeration time is four hours. However, for the best flavor and texture, chill overnight. The longer the cheesecake sits, the better it sets. To tell when your cheesecakes are set, gently shake the cups. If the filling jiggles slightly in the center, it’s ready. If it wobbles too much, it needs more time. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. {{image_2}} You can switch up the flavors in your mini cheesecakes. Try adding different citrus fruits. Lime or orange can give a fresh twist. You can also use flavored extracts. Almond or coconut extract adds a unique touch. Just a little can change the taste. If you want a new base, consider crushed cookies. Oreos or vanilla wafers work great. They add a different flavor profile. For those avoiding gluten, use gluten-free cookies. Almond flour is another good option for a simple crust. Think about how to serve these treats. They pair well with sauces. A berry sauce or a lemon curd can elevate your dish. You can also use fruit compotes for a colorful touch. For plating, stack mini cheesecakes with berries on top. Use a mint leaf for a nice pop of color. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To keep your no-bake mini lemon cheesecakes fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If you don’t have a container, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This helps maintain their creamy texture and vibrant flavor. You can freeze these mini cheesecakes for later enjoyment. First, let them chill completely in the fridge. Then, place the cheesecakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper. To enjoy later, thaw the cheesecakes in the fridge overnight for the best texture. These mini cheesecakes last up to five days in the fridge. Check for any changes in smell or texture before eating. If you notice any signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or mold, it’s best to discard them. Enjoy these sweet treats while they are fresh for the best taste! Yes, you can make these cheesecakes ahead of time. They taste even better after sitting in the fridge. I recommend making them a day or two before you plan to serve them. Just be sure to cover them well. Use plastic wrap or a lid to keep them fresh. This way, you save time and impress your guests with a delicious dessert. If you need a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese. This works well in the recipe. You can also try cashew cream. Soak cashews in water, then blend them until smooth. Add a bit of lemon juice for flavor. Both options give you a nice creamy texture without dairy. To prevent sticking, use mini cheesecake cups or muffin tins with paper liners. This makes removal easy. If you don’t have liners, grease the cups lightly with cooking spray. After chilling, run a small knife around the edge to help release the cheesecakes. This simple step saves you from frustration when serving. This post covered how to make mini cheesecakes, from crust to filling. You learned about key ingredients like cream cheese and graham crackers. I shared tips for the best texture and sweetness. We explored fun variations and storage methods to keep them fresh. Mini cheesecakes are easy to make and fun to enjoy. With practice, you’ll impress everyone with your tasty treats. Now, get in the kitchen and create a delicious dessert!

No-Bake Mini Lemon Cheesecakes

Indulge in the delightful taste of Zesty No-Bake Mini Lemon Cheesecakes! These easy-to-make treats combine creamy lemon filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust for a refreshing dessert that's perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create these scrumptious mini cheesecakes. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your friends and family today!

Ingredients
  

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream

Fresh berries and lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

    Form the Base: Distribute the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of mini cheesecake cups or muffin tins lined with paper liners. Press firmly to create a solid base. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

      Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well-combined.

        Flavor It: Mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

          Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.

            Fill the Cups: Spoon the lemon filling into the chilled crusts, smoothing the tops as you go. Tap the cups gently on the counter to eliminate air bubbles.

              Chill: Cover the mini cheesecakes and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set properly.

                Serve: Just before serving, garnish each cheesecake with fresh berries and a slice of lemon.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 12