Description
Mini Turtle Cheesecakes are bite-sized desserts made with a chocolate chip cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a topping of caramel, chocolate, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want an impressive make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Crust
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon milk
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup finely chopped pecans
Cheesecake Filling
24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
⅓ cup heavy cream
Topping
½ cup caramel sauce
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted
¼ cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
Make the Cookie Crust
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line 24 muffin tins with grease-proof paper liners.
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In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
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Add the beaten egg and mix until incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sea salt, and baking soda. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined.
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Fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
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Scoop about 2 teaspoons of cookie dough into each muffin liner and press gently to form a base.
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Bake for 8 to 9 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Lower oven temperature to 350°F.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
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In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth.
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Add eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
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Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl throughout the process for an even mixture.
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Add the heavy cream and mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.
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Divide the filling evenly among the muffin cups, adding about 3 tablespoons on top of each crust.
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Bake for 20 to 23 minutes, or until the centers are just set with a slight jiggle.
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Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Chill and Garnish
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Cooling Time: Let the cheesecakes cool at room temperature first before transferring to the refrigerator.
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Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to allow them to set.
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Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and melted chocolate. Sprinkle each one with chopped pecans for a beautiful finish.
Notes
Always use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest cheesecake texture.
Allow cheesecakes to cool at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
Add toppings just before serving for best appearance and texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes + Time: 1 hour 30 minutes cooling and chilling
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American