Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes are a delightful, bite-sized version of classic cherry cheesecake, offering creamy, tangy cheesecake with a sweet cherry topping in an easy-to-serve cupcake form. These individual desserts start with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake filling, and finished with a spoonful of cherry pie filling for a touch of fruity sweetness. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a personal treat, these Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes are simple to make and guaranteed to impress with their charm and delicious flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

For the Topping:

• 1 can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Make the Crust: In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner, pressing down firmly. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Fill the Cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each cup about ¾ full.
5. Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set and slightly jiggly. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Top with Cherry Filling: Once cooled, spoon a tablespoon of cherry pie filling over each cheesecake cupcake.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Enjoy these Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes as a creamy, sweet, and tangy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, offering all the deliciousness of cheesecake in a convenient cupcake form!