Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a standard muffin pan with paper liners.
Make the crust
- In a medium bowl, stir the graham cracker crumbs with sugar. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbs hold together when pressed.
- Press roughly 1–2 teaspoons of crumb mixture into the bottom of each liner to form a compact base.
Beat the cream cheese
- In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Scrape the sides of the bowl.
- Add sugar and mix until integrated.
Add eggs and flavor
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and lemon zest (if using).
Fill the pans
- Spoon or pipe the batter over the crusts until each liner is about 3/4 full.
Bake
- Bake at 325°F for 15–18 minutes for mini muffins, or 18–22 minutes for standard mini-cheesecake size.
- Let them cool and chill for at least 2 hours.
Add toppings and serve
- Top with berries, a drizzle of chocolate, or a spoonful of jam just before serving.
Notes
Room temperature ingredients are preferred for better mixing. Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks.
