Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites are the perfect fall dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. These bite-sized treats are easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for any autumn gathering, Halloween party, or simply as a cozy dessert to enjoy on a cool evening. The mini cheesecakes feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a spiced pumpkin layer, making each bite a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Full Recipe
For the crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons sugar
For the cream cheese layer:
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1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg
For the pumpkin layer:
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1 cup pumpkin puree
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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½ teaspoon ground ginger
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves
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1 large egg
For the topping:
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Whipped cream, for topping
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Ground cinnamon, for dusting
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to make it easier to remove the cheesecakes after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner, pressing down firmly to form a crust.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and egg, and mix until fully combined. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crusts, filling each about one-third of the way.
Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Layer
In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and egg until smooth. Gently spoon the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer in each muffin liner, filling to the top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are set. Once done, allow the cheesecakes to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once cooled, top each mini cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Nutrients per Serving
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Calories: 210 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 13g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 3.5g
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Trans Fat: 0g
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Cholesterol: 65mg
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Sodium: 120mg
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Potassium: 80mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 17g
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Vitamin A: 4500 IU
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Vitamin C: 2mg
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Calcium: 40mg
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Iron: 1mg
Why Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Are Perfect for Fall
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites combine two of the most beloved fall flavors: pumpkin spice and cheesecake. These bite-sized desserts are easy to make and serve, making them an ideal choice for busy holiday seasons or casual fall gatherings. The graham cracker crust provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling, while the spiced pumpkin layer adds a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for autumn. The whipped cream and cinnamon topping finish these bites off perfectly, making them not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
The versatility of this recipe is another great feature. While pumpkin is the star ingredient, you can easily substitute other fall fruits, such as sweet potato or butternut squash, to give the cheesecake a unique twist. Additionally, you can adjust the level of sweetness or spice to match your personal preferences, making these bites completely customizable. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner, a Halloween party, or a cozy fall afternoon, these Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Tips for Perfect Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
To ensure your Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites turn out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This ensures that the mixture will be smooth and free of lumps, making it easier to combine the ingredients.
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Don’t Overmix: When preparing the cream cheese layer, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can cause the cheesecake layer to become too airy, leading to cracks in the baked cheesecakes.
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Proper Cooling: Allow the mini cheesecakes to cool gradually in the muffin tin. Sudden changes in temperature can cause cracks in the surface. Once they’ve cooled slightly, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve these Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites with a warm beverage, such as spiced chai, apple cider, or a hot cup of coffee for a cozy treat. They can also be paired with other fall-inspired desserts for a dessert platter that’s perfect for the holidays.
How to Customize Mini Blueberry Galettes
One of the best things about mini galettes is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes. While blueberries are a classic choice, you can experiment with different fruits to create your own version of this delicious dessert. Consider mixing blueberries with strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries for a berry medley galette, or try using stone fruits like peaches, plums, or apricots for a more seasonal twist.
You can also get creative with the crust. While a traditional pie crust works perfectly, you can use puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture, or try a nutty, oat-based crust for added crunch. For those looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free pie crust can easily be substituted to make these galettes suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make fall dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the creamy goodness of cheesecake. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday parties, autumn gatherings, or any time you crave a sweet and indulgent dessert. With a simple graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a spiced pumpkin topping, these bites capture the essence of fall in every bite. Plus, they are versatile and customizable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a cozy dessert for yourself, these Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites are sure to impress. They are the perfect combination of creamy, spiced, and sweet, making them an essential addition to any fall dessert menu. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that is both festive and satisfying.