Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes Recipe

It’s hard to resist the pure indulgence of Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes, and I promise this recipe will make you swoon. Imagine silky, chocolate-laced cheesecake layered over a perfectly crisp Oreo crust, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and pillowy whipped cream—all in an adorable, grab-and-go size. Whether you’re planning a party or just want a decadent treat that feels a little extra special, these cheesecakes always deliver that wow moment. Every bite is creamy, dreamy, and rich with chocolate flavor, making them absolutely irresistible for chocolate lovers everywhere!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes comes from a handful of pantry staples—each ingredient adds its unique flair, from structure to depth of chocolate or that light, tangy finish. Gather these essentials to create something truly mouthwatering.

• Oreo crumbs: Bring rich chocolate flavor and the perfect crunchy base for each mini cheesecake.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Holds the crust together and gives it irresistible richness.
• Cream cheese (full fat, brick style, room temperature): The star for a creamy and tangy filling—be sure it’s soft for easy mixing!
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the cocoa’s intensity.
• Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: Adds bold chocolate notes and deep color.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the chocolatey goodness with a subtle warmth.
• Sour cream (full fat, room temperature): Makes the filling extra silky and tangy.
• Heavy cream (room temperature & cold): Adds richness and lightness—don’t skip it!
• Large egg (room temperature): Binds the cheesecake together for that classic creamy texture.
• Egg yolk: Gives added richness and a denser, cheesecake bite.
• Semi-sweet chocolate (melted): Boosts both flavor and texture—choose good quality for the best taste.
• Dark chocolate (melted): Deepens the chocolate flavor, or use more semi-sweet if you prefer.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the homemade whipped cream perfectly.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt with cream for a glossy ganache finish.

How to Make Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 325 F and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal, and it keeps the cheesecakes neat and tidy—no sticky mess later!

Step 2: Make the Oreo Crust

Mix the Oreo crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl until well combined. Then, spoon about one tablespoon plus an extra teaspoon of this mixture into each cupcake liner. Press it down firmly—use the back of a tablespoon or the bottom of a spice jar for best results. Bake just 5 minutes to set, then let cool while you get the filling together.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolates

Add your chopped semi-sweet and dark chocolate to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until completely melted. Let this chocolate cool only slightly—you want it still pourable but not hot enough to melt the cream cheese.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Lower the oven heat to 300 F. In a mixer bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar on low speed until just smooth. Don’t rush—overmixing can trap air and lead to cracks. Scrape the bowl, blend in the cocoa powder, then add vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream on low, scraping the bowl again. Next, beat in the egg and egg yolk until just combined. Finish by gently folding in your melted chocolate until the batter is beautifully streak-free and deeply chocolatey.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Spoon the creamy batter over the Oreo crusts in your muffin tin, filling each almost to the top. Bake for 15 minutes, then turn off the oven but let the cheesecakes sit inside, door closed, for another 5 minutes. This gentle finish helps avoid cracks and keeps your cheesecakes extra smooth.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Take the pan out of the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. When the cheesecakes are no longer warm to the touch, place them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial for getting that perfect, dense-yet-creamy cheesecake texture.

Step 7: Make the Chocolate Ganache (Optional but Highly Recommended!)

If you want an ultra-decadent finish, place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Warm heavy cream on the stove until just boiling, pour over the chocolate, then let it sit for three minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy, then cool slightly. Spoon about half a tablespoon of ganache over each cheesecake and spread gently for a sleek, shiny top.

Step 8: Whip the Cream

Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for at least 15 minutes. Beat cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip to stiff peaks. A swirl or dollop of this cloud-like cream is the finishing touch your Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes deserve.

How to Serve Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes

Garnishes

The classic finishing touch is a swirl of freshly whipped cream, but why stop there? Sprinkle with chocolate curls, mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra style. A fresh berry, such as a raspberry, also pops beautifully against the rich chocolate.

Side Dishes

These Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes are rich and chocolate-forward, so lighter sides shine best. Try serving them with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, juicy blackberries, or a vibrant fruit salad. For a more decadent dessert platter, offer espresso or a creamy latte alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Who says you have to keep things basic? Stack them on a tiered dessert tray for a party, or plate individually on patterned saucers with a drizzle of raspberry sauce. For holidays, decorate with colorful sprinkles or edible gold dust for mega festive flair. Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes look amazing no matter how you show them off!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These treats are truly make-ahead friendly! Store leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wait to top with whipped cream until just before serving to keep everything fresh and perky.

Freezing

Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes freeze like a dream. Place the cooled (and un-topped) cheesecakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and garnish as desired before serving.

Reheating

Honestly, these little cheesecakes are divine straight from the fridge, so no need to reheat! If you love a barely-warm cheesecake, let one sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving, which can affect their creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or light cream cheese?

For the best texture and richness, I strongly recommend classic full-fat cream cheese. Lighter versions can be watery and just don’t deliver that classic cheesecake flavor and creamy bite.

What kind of chocolate is best for the filling?

Use a good quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate bar for melting into the cheesecake batter. High-quality chocolate means deeper flavor, smoother texture, and a more decadent dessert overall.

Can I skip the chocolate ganache?

Absolutely! The Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes are still delicious without it, but the ganache amps up the chocolate factor and adds a professional, glossy finish. It’s worth the simple extra step if you have the ingredients.

How can I prevent my cheesecakes from cracking?

Don’t overmix the batter, avoid high baking temperatures, and always allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually. Chilling them thoroughly also sets that perfect texture and minimizes cracks.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes are ideal for entertaining because you can make them a day or two in advance, chill until needed, and decorate just before serving. Your guests will be wowed—and you’ll be stress-free!

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with these Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes as much as I have. They’re the kind of treat that’s simple, make-ahead friendly, and sure to impress every time. Give them a try—your sweet tooth will thank you, and you might just discover your new favorite dessert recipe!

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