Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent, these Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes are about to steal the show. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake, paired with the tangy zip of lemon and the sweetness of fresh blueberries. They’re the perfect balance of flavors—light, zesty, and completely irresistible. Plus, they’re mini, so they’re perfectly portioned for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a party, or a treat just for yourself (you deserve it!). Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes

These mini cheesecakes are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a crowd-pleasing sensation. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

• Crisp & Tangy Lemon Flavor: The fresh lemon zest adds a burst of brightness to the cheesecake, making it feel light and refreshing.
• Creamy Dreaminess: The smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling is the stuff dreams are made of. It’s rich, but not too heavy.
• Perfect Portion Size: These mini cheesecakes are the ideal size for a bite-sized indulgence. No need to cut slices or worry about leftovers—just grab and enjoy!
• Berry Goodness: Topping them with sweet, juicy blueberries adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor that complements the tangy lemon perfectly.
• Easy to Make: No need to fuss with a big cheesecake that requires hours of preparation. These minis are simple to whip up and perfect for beginners.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather a few ingredients that’ll transform into the most delicious little cheesecakes you’ve ever tasted. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham Cracker Crumbs

The base of the cheesecake. The crumbs create a sweet, buttery crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

Butter

Melted butter helps hold the crust together while adding richness and flavor.

Cream Cheese

This is the base of the cheesecake filling, giving it that signature smooth and rich texture we all love.

Sugar

To sweeten the cheesecake filling and balance out the tanginess from the lemon.

Egg

Helps set the filling and gives it that perfect cheesecake consistency.

Sour Cream

Adds a little tang to the filling and helps create a smooth texture.

Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon zest gives a burst of citrusy flavor, while the lemon juice adds a nice tang that elevates the cheesecake.

Vanilla Extract

A little vanilla goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of the filling.

Blueberries

Fresh blueberries are the star of the topping. Their natural sweetness complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.

Sugar for Topping

A sprinkle of sugar on the blueberries helps bring out their natural sweetness and gives them a nice shine.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these adorable, irresistible mini cheesecakes:

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter. Spoon the mixture into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners, pressing it down gently to form an even layer. Set the crust aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the cheesecake filling into the muffin tin on top of the graham cracker crusts, filling each cup almost to the top. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Bake the Cheesecakes

Bake the mini cheesecakes at 325°F for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the tin and place them in the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best results).

Prepare the Blueberry Topping

While the cheesecakes are chilling, make the blueberry topping. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries start to burst and release their juices. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Top with Blueberries

Once the mini cheesecakes have chilled and are firm, spoon a generous amount of the blueberry topping over each cheesecake.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 230

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes

These mini cheesecakes are perfect for any occasion, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving game:

• Garnish with Fresh Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint to each cheesecake for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Serve with a Glass of Rosé: These cheesecakes pair beautifully with a light, fruity glass of rosé wine.
• Pair with a Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad made with berries, kiwi, and citrus would complement the cheesecakes perfectly.
• Perfect for Picnics: Pack these mini cheesecakes in a cooler with some ice packs and take them to a picnic or a barbecue for a sweet treat everyone will love.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes turn out absolutely perfect:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the filling come together smoothly without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the cheesecake filling can result in cracks while baking. Beat just until everything is well combined.
• Let the Cheesecakes Cool Completely: It’s tempting to dive in right away, but allow the cheesecakes to cool in the tin for a bit before refrigerating. Chilling them in the fridge overnight makes them extra creamy.
• Top with Fresh Berries: If you want a lighter topping, you can skip the cooked blueberry sauce and simply add fresh berries on top.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different fruit for the topping?
A1: Absolutely! You can use strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries if you prefer. Just follow the same method to cook the berries.

Q2: Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
A2: Yes, these mini cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze these mini cheesecakes?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the cheesecakes before topping them with the blueberries. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q4: Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?
A4: Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs work just fine! Just make sure they’re finely ground for the best texture.

Q5: Can I use a muffin tin without liners?
A5: You can, but be sure to grease the muffin tin well so the cheesecakes don’t stick. Cupcake liners make them much easier to remove and serve.

Q6: Can I make these in a large cheesecake pan instead?
A6: You can, but keep in mind that the baking time will be longer. Start checking for doneness at around 30-35 minutes.

Q7: How do I know when the cheesecakes are done?
A7: The centers should be set but slightly jiggly. If they’re firm to the touch, they’ve likely overbaked.

Q8: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A8: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, though the texture may be slightly less rich. The flavor will still be great!

Q9: How can I make the crust gluten-free?
A9: Use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie option to make the crust. Just crush them up the same way as you would regular graham crackers.

Q10: How long do these mini cheesecakes last in the fridge?
A10: These mini cheesecakes will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

These Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, a party, or just a sweet escape after a long day. With their zesty lemon flavor, creamy texture, and burst of blueberry goodness, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite. Simple to make, refreshing to eat, and guaranteed to impress, these cheesecakes are your new go-to dessert. Enjoy!

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