Mini Tropical Cheesecakes

Ingredients

For the Crust:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed nuts (optional, for added texture)

For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)

For the Topping:
– Whipped cream
– Thin slices of pineapple, dried or fresh
– Fresh raspberries
– Crushed graham crackers or nuts for sprinkling

Preparation

1. Prepare the Crust:
   – Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   – In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and crushed nuts (if using) until well combined.
   – Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased muffin tin or individual mini cheesecake pans to form the crust.
   – Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   – In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   – Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   – Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and pineapple juice until fully combined.
   – Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the muffin tin or pans, filling each one nearly to the top.
3. Bake the Cheesecakes:
   – Bake the mini cheesecakes for 18-22 minutes, or until the centers are set and the tops are slightly puffed.
   – Remove from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Decorate and Serve:
   – Once the cheesecakes are chilled, carefully remove them from the muffin tin or pans.
   – Top each cheesecake with a swirl of whipped cream.
   – Garnish with a slice of pineapple and a fresh raspberry.
   – Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or nuts for added texture.

These mini tropical cheesecakes are not only visually stunning but also offer a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake with the refreshing taste of pineapple and the tartness of raspberries. Perfect for any special occasion!