Description
These Nutella Cheesecake Cupcakes combine a creamy, smooth cheesecake batter swirled with rich Nutella on a crispy graham cracker crust. Baked to perfection and topped with extra Nutella, whipped cream, and chopped hazelnuts, they make a decadent dessert that’s perfect for parties or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup Nutella, warmed slightly
Toppings
- Extra Nutella for drizzling
- Whipped cream
- Chopped hazelnuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ease removal.
- Make the Crust: In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner, creating an even crust layer. Bake the crusts for 5 minutes to set them, then remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure even incorporation. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is fully combined and smooth.
- Fill Cupcakes and Swirl Nutella: Spoon the cheesecake filling into each prepared crust, filling about 3/4 full. Add a teaspoon of warmed Nutella on top of each filled cupcake and use a toothpick to swirl the Nutella gently into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Place the filled cupcakes in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill and Decorate: Once cooled, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours to fully set. Before serving, drizzle extra Nutella over the cupcakes and top with whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Warming Nutella slightly makes it easier to swirl into the batter.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake cupcakes to prevent cracking or dryness; centers should be slightly jiggly when done.
- Refrigerating the cupcakes is essential for proper texture and flavor development.
- For dairy-free variations, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with suitable plant-based alternatives.