0.75cupberry jam or fresh berriesfor topping, optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat oven to 325°F. Line a 24-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners.
Stir graham crumbs, crust sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly moistened.
Spoon about 1 teaspoon crust mixture into each liner and press firmly to compact. Bake 5 minutes; set aside.
Beat softened cream cheese and filling sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes.
Mix in sour cream, vanilla, lemon zest, and salt until combined. Add eggs one at a time on low, just to blend.
Divide batter over crusts, filling liners almost to the top. Tap the pan to release bubbles.
Bake 12–13 minutes, until edges are set and centers jiggle slightly. Do not overbake.
Cool in the pan 10 minutes, then chill until cold, at least 1 hour. Top with jam or berries before serving.
Notes
Variation: Swap graham crackers for chocolate wafer cookies for a cocoa crust, or swirl in lemon curd before baking. Storage: Keep chilled in an airtight container up to 5 days, or freeze up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Mini Cheesecake Bites Made Easy flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.