These decadent Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites are the perfect individual dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with creamy cheesecake texture. Each bite-sized treat features a chocolate cookie crust, silky chocolate cheesecake filling, glossy ganache topping, and a dollop of cocoa whipped cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites offer the ultimate chocolate indulgence in perfectly portioned servings. The individual size makes them ideal for entertaining, as guests can easily grab one without the need for cutting or serving utensils. The combination of textures—from the crunchy chocolate crust to the smooth cheesecake filling and rich ganache—creates a sophisticated dessert experience. Unlike full-sized cheesecakes, these mini versions bake faster and cool quicker, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining. The recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the chocolate intensity or add your favorite toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust
- 1 cup (120 g) chocolate cookie crumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 12 oz (340 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup (60 g) sour cream, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 4 oz (115 g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted
For the Ganache Topping
- 3 oz (85 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
For the Cocoa Whipped Cream
- ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation (15 minutes):
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with butter.
- Allow cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
Make the Crust (5 minutes): 3. In a medium bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter, mixing until the crumbs hold together when pressed. 4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing firmly into the bottom of each liner to create a compact crust.
Prepare the Filling (10 minutes): 5. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. 6. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until fully incorporated. 7. Mix in cocoa powder, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. 8. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined—avoid overmixing. 9. Slowly pour in the melted chocolate, mixing until the filling is uniform and glossy.
Bake the Cheesecakes (25-30 minutes): 10. Divide the filling evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. 11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the centers are just set with a slight jiggle when gently shaken. 12. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecakes to cool gradually for 15 minutes. 13. Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Make the Ganache (5 minutes): 14. Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just beginning to simmer. 15. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. 16. Allow ganache to cool for 10 minutes before spreading over chilled cheesecakes.
Prepare Cocoa Whipped Cream (5 minutes): 17. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. 18. Transfer to a piping bag or use a spoon to dollop onto each cheesecake.
Helpful Tips
Temperature Control: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth filling. Cold ingredients can cause the mixture to curdle or become grainy.
Prevent Cracking: Avoid overmixing the batter once eggs are added, as this incorporates too much air and can cause cracks during baking. The gradual cooling process also helps prevent surface cracks.
Even Baking: Use an ice cream scoop or large spoon to divide the filling evenly among cups for consistent baking and professional appearance.
Ganache Consistency: If your ganache becomes too thick, warm it gently and whisk in a teaspoon of cream. If it’s too thin, let it cool longer before applying.
Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling Time: 3+ hours
Total Time: 4 hours
Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Difficulty: Intermediate
These Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites require some patience for proper cooling and setting, but the hands-on preparation is straightforward. The key to success lies in proper ingredient temperatures and gentle mixing techniques.
Notes
Make-Ahead Option: These cheesecakes can be made up to 2 days in advance. Add the ganache and whipped cream just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
Cookie Crust Variations: While chocolate cookies create the most intense chocolate flavor, you can substitute with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels for different flavor profiles.
Chocolate Quality: Use good-quality chocolate for both the filling and ganache, as the flavor will be prominent in the final dessert. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter result.
Portion Control: Each mini cheesecake is rich and satisfying at about 2-3 bites per serving, making them perfect for portion-conscious dessert lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different pan instead of a muffin tin? A: Yes, you can use a mini cheesecake pan, mini tart pans, or even make one large cheesecake in a 9-inch springform pan. Adjust baking time accordingly—larger cheesecakes may need 45-60 minutes.
Q: Why did my cheesecakes crack? A: Cracks typically result from overmixing, temperature shock, or overbaking. Ensure ingredients are room temperature, mix gently, and use the gradual cooling method described in the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze these Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites? A: Yes, freeze the cheesecakes without toppings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add ganache and whipped cream before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have sour cream? A: You can substitute with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or additional cream cheese for a slightly different but still delicious result.
Q: How do I know when they’re done baking? A: The centers should be just set with a slight jiggle when gently shaken. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool. Overbaking will result in a dry, cracked texture.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration: Store Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The ganache and whipped cream toppings are best when fresh but will hold for 2-3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled cheesecakes without toppings in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding toppings.
Room Temperature: These cheesecakes can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. Beyond that, they should be refrigerated for food safety.
Individual Wrapping: For gift-giving or meal prep, wrap individual cheesecakes in plastic wrap once completely cooled. This prevents them from absorbing refrigerator odors and makes portion control easy.
Conclusion
These Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites deliver restaurant-quality dessert in an approachable home recipe. The combination of rich chocolate flavors, creamy textures, and elegant presentation makes them perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. While they require some advance planning for proper chilling time, the actual preparation is straightforward and rewarding.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and make-ahead convenience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing dessert to a potluck, or simply craving an indulgent treat, these Mini Chocolate Cheesecake Bites will exceed expectations. The individual portions eliminate the guesswork of serving sizes and create an impressive presentation that guests will remember long after the last bite.