Grinch Mini Cheesecakes
Delightful mini cheesecakes inspired by the Grinch, featuring a creamy green filling and buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup crushed graham cracker crumbs For a buttery base; substitute with gluten-free graham crackers if preferred.
- 1/4 cup sugar White granulated sugar works best, or consider coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted Always use unsalted butter for better control over sweetness.
For the filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth texture; recommend Philadelphia for its rich flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar Sift before measuring for lump-free incorporation.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor; avoid imitation if possible.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Use fresh cream for the best results.
For decoration
- Red candy or fruit fresh raspberries, mini candy canes, or red M&M's Create a beautiful topping!
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, combine crushed graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until sandy texture. Press mixture into bottoms of mini cheesecake pans firmly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add green food coloring until the desired shade is achieved, mixing gently.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crusts in your mini pans, filling about ¾ full.
Baking
- Bake for about 20 minutes, then let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Decoration
- Once chilled, remove cheesecakes from pans and garnish with red candy or fruit before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can be made a day ahead—just wait to add decorations until serving.