Pin it
These gnome mini cheesecakes are delightful bite-sized treats that bring a whimsical twist to classic cheesecake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a playful dessert that tastes as good as it looks, they combine creamy cheesecake with a crisp crust and charming strawberry hats that make every bite fun.
Ingredients
- For the crust: the graham cracker crumbs create a crunchy buttery base that balances the creamy cheesecake Choose fresh crackers without clumps for even texture Butter adds richness while sugar enhances caramel notes
- For the cheesecake filling: softened cream cheese is essential for smooth mixing and fluffy texture Use full fat for the best flavor Granulated sugar brings sweetness while vanilla extract adds warmth and depth Eggs provide structure but add them slowly to avoid lumps Sour cream or Greek yogurt gives tanginess and makes the filling silkier
- For the decorations: fresh strawberries form the gnome hats so pick bright firm berries without bruises Whipped cream adds lightness and color contrast Mini white chocolate chips or candy pearls serve as cute noses Powdered sugar dusting gives the final snowy look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit which is about 160 degrees Celsius Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or reusable silicone molds to help remove your mini cheesecakes easily later For a fancier touch you can use a mini cheesecake pan with removable bottoms which makes for a cleaner presentation
- Make the Crust:
- In a bowl mix the graham cracker crumbs with the sugar and melted butter until the texture looks like wet sand This ensures the crust will hold together well after baking Spoon roughly one tablespoon into each cupcake liner and press firmly using the back of a spoon or a small glass to make an even compact base Bake the crusts for five minutes then let them cool slightly while you prepare the filling This step gives a crisp buttery crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium until smooth and creamy about two to three minutes Add the sugar and keep beating until fluffy then mix in the vanilla extract for aromatic sweetness Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed to avoid air bubbles which can cause cracks Finally mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt which softens the texture and adds a subtle tang Be careful not to overmix after adding the eggs to keep the filling dense and creamy
- Fill and Bake:
- Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the muffin cups filling each about three quarters full Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes until the centers are just set and may still jiggle a little Turn off the oven and open the door slightly then let the cheesecakes cool inside for ten minutes Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours so they can firm up
- Prepare the Gnome Decorations:
- Wash and hull the strawberries trimming the tops so they sit flat these will be the gnome hats Once chilled remove the mini cheesecakes from the liners carefully Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on each cheesecake for the fluffy beard Place the strawberry upside down on top forming the bright red gnome hat Add a small dot of whipped cream at the tip of the strawberry for the pom-pom and gently press a mini white chocolate chip or candy pearl just beneath the hat as the nose Using a piping bag with a small tip helps you control the whipped cream details for a neat look
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Dust all the gnome cheesecakes lightly with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect Arrange them on a festive platter with pine branches or fresh cranberries to complete the holiday vibe They look like a tiny edible army of winter gnomes ready to bring joy and sweetness to your dessert table
Pin it
Storage Tips
Store these mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to keep them longer freeze them on a tray until solid then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving Keep the whipped cream and strawberry decorations fresh by adding them just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the graham cracker crumbs for digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different but still delicious crust Use coconut yogurt instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a dairy-free twist For decoration try blueberries or raspberries for color variation or use tiny marshmallows as an alternative to whipped cream Vanilla extract can be replaced with almond or lemon extract to change up the flavor profile
Serving Suggestions
These gnome mini cheesecakes are perfect on their own or served alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee Pair them with a simple berry sauce drizzle or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture They make beautiful party favors or festive additions to any holiday dessert spread
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of crust is used for these mini cheesecakes?
A buttery graham cracker crumb crust forms a firm, crisp base that holds well after baking and chilling.
- → How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake filling?
Beat the mixture just until smooth and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs to reduce air incorporation that can cause cracks.
- → What makes the filling creamy and balanced in flavor?
The combination of softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds silkiness and a subtle tanginess.
- → How are the gnome decorations assembled?
After chilling, each cheesecake is topped with whipped cream as a beard, an inverted strawberry as a hat, and a mini white chocolate chip or candy pearl as the nose.
- → Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared in advance, chilled until firm, and decorated just before serving for best presentation.