These Patriotic Mini Cheesecakes are festive, bite-sized treats perfect for Fourth of July celebrations, Memorial Day, or any red, white, and blue-themed gathering. With a creamy filling, graham cracker crust, and vibrant berry toppings, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mini cheesecakes are not only rich and creamy, but also easy to serve and perfectly portioned. The colorful berry topping makes them visually stunning for patriotic holidays, while the simple ingredients and make-ahead option make them a stress-free dessert for any summer event.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbsunsalted buttermelted sugarcream cheeseeggsgranulated sugarsour creamvanilla extractfresh strawberriesfresh blueberrieswhipped creamred and blue food coloring (optional for extra color)
directions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner to form a crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air.
Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly into the prepared liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until centers are set but slightly jiggly. Let them cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Before serving, top each cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of strawberry, and a few blueberries. Add red or blue food coloring to the whipped cream for extra flair if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 mini cheesecakes.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 18-20 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total time: about 3 hours
Variations
Use chocolate cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for a richer crust.
Top with cherry pie filling and whipped cream for a different red element.
Add lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy tang.
Use heart-shaped molds for patriotic-themed Valentine treats.
storage/reheating
Store mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Avoid reheating; serve chilled for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
No, these mini versions bake evenly without one.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat yields the creamiest results.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks?
Don’t overmix the batter and avoid overbaking.
Can I use frozen berries?
Fresh berries are best for presentation, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
They should be set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes! Try chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, or sprinkles for added flair.
Can I make these without cupcake liners?
Yes, but be sure to grease the pan well or use a silicone muffin tray.
Conclusion
Patriotic Mini Cheesecakes are a festive, flavorful way to celebrate any red, white, and blue occasion. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress, these creamy, fruit-topped delights are the perfect handheld dessert to brighten your holiday table.
PrintPatriotic Mini Cheesecakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive and creamy mini cheesecakes topped with vibrant red, white, and blue decorations, perfect for patriotic celebrations like the 4th of July or Memorial Day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Red and blue fruit (strawberries, blueberries)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Optional: red and blue sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tbsp sugar until combined.
- Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup sugar and mix until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crusts in the muffin tin, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the centers are set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Top each mini cheesecake with whipped cream, fresh strawberries and blueberries, and optional sprinkles.
Notes
- Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
- These can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Use festive liners for extra flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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