Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes Recipe

The Perfect Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes Recipe for Sweet Moments

Decadent mini pecan pie cheesecakes bring together two beloved desserts in one irresistible bite.

These creamy, nutty treats combine the richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, caramel-like essence of pecan pie.

Each mini dessert packs a delightful punch of flavor that melts in your mouth.

The buttery graham cracker crust provides a perfect foundation for the silky cream cheese filling.

Topped with a generous layer of candied pecans, these mini cheesecakes create a stunning presentation that will impress even the most discerning dessert lovers.

Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes: Sweet Bites

  • Bake and Impress: Create a stunning dessert that looks professionally made with minimal baking skills required, perfect for home cooks who want to wow their guests.
  • Sweet Combo Delight: Enjoy the incredible fusion of creamy cheesecake and classic pecan pie flavors in one bite-sized treat, offering a decadent twist on traditional desserts.
  • Stress-Free Preparation: Whip up these mini cheesecakes with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a quick dessert solution.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: These individual servings are perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings, allowing easy serving and ensuring everyone gets their own delicious portion.

Pecan Cheesecake Must-Haves

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecakes.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and creates a rich flavor.
Cheesecake Base Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The creamy and smooth core ingredient that gives cheesecake its signature texture.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
  • Egg: Helps set the cheesecake and provides structure.
  • Vanilla: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
Pecan Pie Topping Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Butter, Heavy Cream, Salt: Create a rich and smooth caramel-like sauce for the topping.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor of the topping.
  • Pecans: Adds a nutty crunch and traditional pecan pie flavor to the cheesecakes.

Mini Cheesecake: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 325°F.

Grab a muffin tin and line it with paper cupcake wrappers.

Step 2: Create Crust Foundation

Grab graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Mix these ingredients together until well combined.

Press a spoonful of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup, creating a solid base.

Step 3: Whip Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.

Add in:
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until everything is perfectly incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups

Carefully distribute the cheesecake mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full.

Ensure even distribution for consistent baking.

Step 5: Bake Cheesecake Base

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-18 minutes until the centers look set and slightly firm.

Remove and let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 6: Craft Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan, combine:
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Salt

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.

This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.

Step 7: Add Pecan Topping

Generously spoon the warm pecan mixture over each cooled cheesecake, covering the surface evenly.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least one hour.

This helps the topping set and enhances the flavor.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Moves For Mini Cheesecakes

  • Avoid overmixing the batter and gently fold ingredients to keep the texture smooth and prevent surface cracks.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a creamy, consistent texture that prevents dry or grainy cheesecakes.
  • Watch the cheesecakes closely during baking and remove from oven when centers are just set to maintain a silky, soft consistency.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the pecan mixture by tasting and adding a pinch of salt or extra vanilla to enhance the flavor profile.
  • Keep cheesecakes refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to preserve their delicate texture.

Swirl In Something New: Cheesecake Twists

  • Gluten-Free Nutty Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free vanilla extract and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Pecan Cheesecake Bites: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut oil instead of butter, replace egg with flax egg, and choose plant-based vanilla extract. Top with caramelized maple-glazed pecans for extra richness.
  • Low-Carb Pecan Cheesecake Cups: Substitute graham cracker base with crushed almonds or coconut flour. Use sugar-free sweetener like erythritol, replace heavy cream with almond milk, and choose sugar-free vanilla extract. Reduce pecan quantity for lower calorie content.

Mini Cheesecake Party Platter

  • Festive Party Platter: Arrange mini cheesecakes on a decorative tray with fresh mint leaves and sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant dessert display.
  • Decadent Ice Cream Companion: Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the rich pecan and cheesecake flavors.
  • Beverage Pairing Perfection: Match these mini desserts with coffee, bourbon, or a sweet dessert wine to complement their nutty and creamy profile.
  • Holiday Gift Idea: Package these mini cheesecakes in clear gift boxes tied with rustic ribbons for a homemade treat perfect for gatherings or hostess gifts.

Store Little Cheesecakes With Care

  • Store mini pecan pie cheesecakes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap each cheesecake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Let cheesecakes sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture soggy.
  • These mini cheesecakes taste best when served cold directly from the refrigerator, maintaining their creamy texture and pecan topping.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for this recipe?

The key ingredients include graham cracker crumbs, cream cheese, eggs, pecans, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a consistent temperature, and let the cheesecakes cool gradually to prevent cracking.

  • Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these up to 2-3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes Recipe

Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent mini pecan pie cheesecakes combine creamy cheesecake with classic pecan pie flavors in one irresistible bite. Sweet Southern charm meets rich dessert perfection, offering delectable layers that will transport taste buds to pure comfort and bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 5 tablespoons (70 grams) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping and Filling Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Create a crumbly crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then firmly press a tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup bottom.
  3. Whip cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, then incorporate egg and vanilla, blending until fully integrated.
  4. Carefully distribute the cheesecake mixture evenly across muffin cups, filling approximately three-quarters of each liner.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes until cheesecake centers appear set and slightly firm, then allow to cool completely at room temperature.
  6. Craft the pecan topping by combining brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt in a saucepan, cooking over medium heat while continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (approximately 3-4 minutes).
  7. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans, creating a rich, glossy coating.
  8. Generously spoon the pecan mixture over each cooled cheesecake, ensuring even coverage.
  9. Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for a minimum of 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and topping to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake base that blends effortlessly.
  • Press graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid foundation that won’t crumble when serving.
  • Toast pecans briefly before adding to the topping to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
  • Allow cheesecakes to cool completely before adding pecan topping to prevent soggy or melting texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 269 kcal
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 116 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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