Description
These Juicy Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes are a delightful blend of creamy lemon-flavored cheesecake, fresh blueberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly portioned as individual servings, they are topped with a homemade blueberry sauce that adds a sweet and tangy finish. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a refreshing dessert any time of year.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners to prepare for the cheesecake assembly.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup, then bake for 5-7 minutes until set and lightly golden.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Blueberries and Bake: Gently fold in fresh blueberries into the filling mixture. Pour the filling over the baked crusts in the muffin cups, then bake for 18-20 minutes until just set around the edges.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecakes from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set and chill.
- Prepare Blueberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Serve: Serve the chilled mini cheesecakes topped with the fresh blueberry sauce for a perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbake cheesecakes; slight jiggle in the center is ideal before cooling.
- Allow cheesecakes to refrigerate long enough to fully set for the best texture.
- Blueberry sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra zest, garnish with additional lemon zest or a fresh blueberry on top.