These Peanut Butter Caramel Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect indulgent treat for any occasion. With a creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, a buttery crust, and gooey caramel topping, they’re a decadent combination of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Caramel Mini Cheesecakes
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or melted chocolate for drizzling
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Spoon about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mixture into each liner and press firmly to form the crust.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add peanut butter and sour cream, mixing well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecakes
- Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the crusts, filling each liner almost to the top.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before adding toppings.
Step 4: Add the Caramel Topping
Spoon a generous amount of caramel sauce over each chilled cheesecake.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips on top, if desired.
- For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the paper liners from the mini cheesecakes and serve them on a platter. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat at home.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Caramel Mini Cheesecakes are a luxurious, crowd-pleasing dessert. The combination of nutty, creamy, and caramel sweetness makes these mini treats absolutely irresistible. Try them today for a bite of indulgence!