Easy Graduation Cheesecake Bites (Print)

Mini creamy cheesecakes on a buttery graham crust, chilled and topped for festive graduation servings.

# Components:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs
02 - 3 tbsp (40 g) granulated sugar
03 - 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
08 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
09 - Pinch of salt

→ Topping (Optional)

10 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) whipped cream
11 - Festive sprinkles or mini chocolate graduation caps
12 - Fresh berries for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 24-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into each liner and press down firmly.
03 - Bake the crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
04 - For the filling, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined.
05 - Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the prepared crusts, filling each almost to the top.
06 - Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until centers are just set (a slight jiggle is ok).
07 - Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
08 - Before serving, top with whipped cream and decorations as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It feels like you pulled off a party trick, but it’s secretly effortless and can be made the day ahead.
  • Everyone goes for seconds because they're just the right size and as creamy as a classic cheesecake.
02 -
  • Once I rushed the cooling and ended up with wrappers stuck to sticky sides—give them plenty of chill time before peeling.
  • Switching to chocolate cookie crumbs one time made the bites taste like a fancy candy bar—don’t hesitate to try different bases.
03 -
  • Let the cheesecakes cool completely before topping (no shortcuts—trust me)
  • A little sour cream in the batter is the not-so-secret secret for extra tang and silkiness.
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