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Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes

Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes

Mini Easter Orange Cheesecakes are delightful springtime treats featuring a creamy texture enhanced with fresh orange zest. These festive, perfectly portioned mini cheesecakes combine simple ingredients to create a bright, tangy dessert ideal for Easter gatherings or any spring celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottoms of mini cupcake tins lined with paper cups to form the crust base.
  2. Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, and orange juice to infuse the citrus flavor.
  3. Fill and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over each crust in the mini tins. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18-22 minutes until the centers are just set but slightly jiggly to maintain a velvety texture.
  4. Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecakes cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up and meld flavors.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Gently remove paper liners and garnish with extra orange zest, thin orange slices, or fresh mint leaves for an appealing, fresh presentation.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free filling.
  • Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks after baking.
  • Consider baking in a water bath to keep cheesecakes moist and avoid cracking.
  • Chill completely to achieve the ideal creamy texture and easier slicing.
  • Always use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecake, orange zest cheesecake, Easter dessert, spring dessert, citrus cheesecake, bite-size cheesecake