Super Bowl Dessert Mini Cheesecake Cups

Name: Super Bowl Dessert Mini Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sour cream; Fresh berries; Chocolate syrup; Whipped cream

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

When it comes to game day treats, I think these Super Bowl Dessert Mini Cheesecake Cups have stolen the show! I love how they combine the rich and creamy flavor of cheesecake with the convenience of a portable dessert. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family while watching the big game. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious filling, these mini treats have quickly become a staple in my Super Bowl celebrations. They’re easy to make ahead of time, which means more time to enjoy the game!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:25:34.996Z

Last year, I wanted to impress my friends with a dessert that was not only delicious but also easy to grab and enjoy while cheering for our teams. I stumbled upon the idea of mini cheesecakes and decided to put my spin on them with a graham cracker crust. Using mini cupcake liners made everything so much easier, and I could feel the excitement building as I took my first bite!

What I found most rewarding was the joy of layering flavors. I experimented by adding different toppings—like fresh berries or a chocolate drizzle—for variety. Each cup brought a delicious surprise, which made sharing them even more fun. I recommend trying out different flavor combos to suit your taste!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicious creamy cheesecake consistency in a fun mini form
Perfectly sized for snacking while enjoying the game
Customizable toppings to suit every palate

      

Mastering the Mini Cheesecake Technique

Achieving the perfect mini cheesecake requires some finesse, especially in mixing the filling. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature; this prevents lumps and ensures a smooth batter. Use a hand mixer on medium speed, which helps to aerate the mixture without overmixing. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the cheesecakes to crack during baking, so mix until just combined and glossy.

Filling the cups accurately is crucial for even baking. A cookie scoop is handy for portioning the filling, ensuring each cupcake liner has the same amount. Remember to leave a little space at the top of each cup. During baking, the cheesecake will puff slightly, and this space prevents overflow, maintaining that neat mini appearance ideal for serving.

Customizing Your Cheesecake Cups

One of the best aspects of these mini cheesecakes is their versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or lemon, for a unique twist. You can also fold in a couple of tablespoons of melted chocolate into the filling for a rich chocolate cheesecake or incorporate pureed fruit for a fruity variation, adjusting the sugar as needed depending on the sweetness of the fruit.

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. I recommend preparing a variety of garnishes to suit different tastes. Fresh berries not only add a pop of color but also bring a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup adds an extra layer of flavor and decadence that will enhance the overall experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your mini cheesecake cups!

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream

For Garnishing (Optional)

Fresh berries
Chocolate syrup
Whipped cream

Once you have everything ready, let’s get started on the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious mini cheesecake cups!

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Line a muffin tin with mini cupcake liners and press a spoonful of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each liner to form the crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.

Fill the Cups

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Make sure to leave space at the top as they will rise slightly during baking.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the mini cheesecakes for about 10 minutes, or until set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let cool before refrigerating.

Chill and Serve

Let the cheesecakes chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. Before serving, top with your favorite garnishes like fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Enjoy your delightful mini cheesecakes at your Super Bowl party!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the cheesecake filling. You can also experiment with flavored extracts to create different varieties!

Make-Ahead Tips

These mini cheesecakes are ideal for preparing in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests during the Super Bowl. They can be made 1-2 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge, which can alter their flavor.

If you're looking to store them even longer, consider freezing the mini cheesecakes. Simply freeze them unadorned in their cupcake liners on a baking tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for about 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and add your toppings just before presenting them to guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mini cheesecakes crack during baking, it might be a sign of overmixing or baking at too high a temperature. Always bake them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) and keep an eye out for the indicators: set edges and slightly jiggly centers. If cracks do occur, don’t worry! Topping them with whipped cream or a berry compote can easily disguise minor imperfections, adding both flavor and aesthetic appeal.

Another common issue is a soggy crust. To combat this, ensure you're using melted butter that’s evenly mixed with the crumbs. Additionally, baking the crust for about 5-7 minutes before adding the cheesecake filling can create a firmer base that holds up better when chilled. Trust me; it makes a big difference in maintaining that satisfying texture contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for party prep.

→ What are some good toppings for these cheesecakes?

Fresh fruits, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of crushed nuts work beautifully.

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the texture might be a bit different.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.