Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cheesecake Cups

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Mini Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Chocolate sauce; Caramel sauce; Whipped cream

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making sweet treats for Super Bowl gatherings, and these Mini Cheesecake Cups have quickly become a favorite! Each cup is a perfect little bite of creamy cheesecake goodness that can be customized with various toppings. They are easy to prepare and can be made a day in advance, which is a huge time-saver for game day. Plus, they look adorable on the dessert table, adding a touch of elegance to the festivities while satisfying everyone's sweet tooth.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:58:17.805Z

When I first made these Mini Cheesecake Cups, I was surprised by how easy they were to whip up. I found that using a no-bake cheesecake filling made the process go even smoother, and it set perfectly in the fridge. The best part was the variety of toppings you could choose to elevate each cup – from fresh berries to chocolate drizzle, the options are endless!

One tip I have learned is to use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. This not only makes removal easier but also gives each cup a delightful presentation. I love how versatile these desserts are; you can tailor them to fit any theme or flavor preference, making them a great addition to any celebration.

        Why You'll Love These Mini Cheesecake Cups
        Decadently creamy with a graham cracker crust
Endless topping possibilities to suit every palate
No-bake preparation makes them easy and stress-free

      

Perfecting the Cheesecake Filling

To achieve that ultra-creamy cheesecake filling, it's crucial to let your cream cheese soften properly. Ideally, you should allow it to sit at room temperature for at least an hour before starting. This ensures it blends seamlessly without any lumps. When mixing, start at a low speed to avoid splattering, and gradually increase to medium-high until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.

Incorporating the heavy cream is another key moment. Be sure to use cold heavy whipping cream for the best volume. Whip it until it forms stiff peaks, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes at medium speed. Folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture should be done gently, as this maintains the airy texture, resulting in a light and fluffy cheesecake.

Customizing Your Mini Cheesecake Cups

One of the best parts of these Mini Cheesecake Cups is their versatility. You can customize the flavors by adding ingredients like lemon zest or cocoa powder to the filling. For a peppermint twist, consider adding peppermint extract for a holiday flair. Just be cautious with the concentration, as a little goes a long way.

When it comes to toppings, fresh berries brighten the flavor profile and add a refreshing touch. For a more decadent experience, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce right before serving. If you're looking to impress, consider using crushed cookies, like Oreos or toffee bits, as toppings. This variation not only enhances the texture but also introduces contrasting flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious mini cheesecakes:

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Crust

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

Topping Suggestions

Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Chocolate sauce
Caramel sauce
Whipped cream

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to create your mini cheesecakes!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Mini Cheesecake Cups:

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of cupcake liners placed in a muffin tin. Make sure it's evenly distributed.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cupcake liner, filling them about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops if desired, then cover with plastic wrap.

Chill

Refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 4 hours or until set. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve with Toppings

Once set, decorate the mini cheesecakes with your choice of toppings. Serve chilled and enjoy!

These cheesecake cups are sure to impress your guests!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try mixing in some lemon zest into the cheesecake filling for a refreshing lemon cheesecake flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake cups don't set properly, check the chilling time. They should be refrigerated for at least four hours, but ideally overnight, to ensure they are firm and well-set. If rushed, the filling may be too soft and could collapse or spill from the cups when serving.

Another common issue can arise from overmixing the cream cheese or whipping the heavy cream too much. Overmixing can introduce air, leading to cracks in the surface once baked or chilled. Aim for smoothness in the cream cheese mixture and stop whipping the heavy cream just after stiff peaks form to avoid a curdled texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Mini Cheesecake Cups can be prepared a day in advance, making them an ideal choice for Super Bowl parties. Once assembled and chilled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they are well covered to prevent them from absorbing any odors or flavors from the fridge.

If you're looking to prepare them even earlier, consider freezing the cheesecake cups. After chilling, you can place them in the freezer for up to a month. Just keep in mind that you should add fresh toppings just before serving, as items like whipped cream and fruit don't freeze well and should be applied after thawing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Mini Cheesecake Cups dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew cheese and coconut cream.

→ How long do these cheesecakes last in the refrigerator?

These mini cheesecakes can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the cheesecake cups?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are well wrapped. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies as a substitute for the graham cracker crust.