Mini Turtle Cheesecakes – Decadent Chocolate, Caramel, and Pecan Delights
Indulge in these Mini Turtle Cheesecakes — a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate ganache, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. These bite-sized desserts are the perfect sweet treat for parties, holidays, or a personal indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–17 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- For the Topping:
- Jarred caramel sauce
- Chocolate ganache (made from 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips + 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream)
- Chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each liner and press down firmly.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined — do not overmix.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the muffin cups, filling nearly to the top.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes, or until centers are just set.
- Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
- Add Toppings:
- Remove chilled cheesecakes from the pan.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Prepare ganache by heating cream and pouring it over chocolate chips. Let sit, then stir until smooth. Drizzle over caramel.
- Top with chopped pecans.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze without toppings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before topping.
- Customization: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or omit for a nut-free option
