How to Make Mini Cheesecakes with a Chocolate Ganache Twist

Mini cheesecakes are the perfect dessert when you want something indulgent but not too big. Add a chocolate ganache and you have a showstopper that’s decadent and versatile. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a dessert for a special occasion, these bite sized cheesecakes have all the creamy goodness of a classic cheesecake, layered with the richness of chocolate ganache.

What makes this dessert so special is how easy it is. You don’t need special equipment or hours of prep. The mini size means faster bake and cool time and the chocolate ganache is a foolproof way to add elegance and flavor. Plus, you can customize them - think crushed nuts, fresh fruit or even edible gold dust to make them extra fancy.

The beauty of this dessert is in the balance. The buttery crust has a nice crunch, the cheesecake filling melts in your mouth and the chocolate ganache is silky smooth. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, making mini cheesecakes with chocolate ganache is a fun and easy way to impress your taste buds - and anyone who gets to eat them!

Recipe To Make Mini Cheesecakes With A Chocolate Ganache Twist

Mini cheesecakes with a chocolate ganache twist are the ultimate treat. Creamy, rich and perfectly portioned these little desserts combine the classic cheesecake texture with the luxury of a smooth chocolate topping.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 150 g digestive biscuits (or Parle-G), crushed
• 50 g butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 300 g cream cheese (room temperature)
• 100 g powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs (medium-sized)
• 2 tbsp fresh cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 100 g dark chocolate, chopped
• 50 ml fresh cream

Method:

1. Prepare the crust by mixing crushed biscuits with melted butter. Press into lined muffin trays and chill for 10 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then fresh cream.
3. Pour the filling over the crusts, fill each liner ¾ full. Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C for 15-20 minutes. Cool completely.
4. Heat fresh cream for the ganache and pour over the chocolate. Stir until smooth.
5. Top each cheesecake with ganache and chill for 2-3 hours before serving.

8 Mini Cheesecakes with a Chocolate Ganache Twist

Get The Base Right

The base of a mini cheesecake is the crust. Go for digestive biscuits, graham crackers or even crushed Oreo cookies for a crunchy flavor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter to bind them and press them into the bottom of your muffin liners. This crunchy layer is a lovely contrast to the creamy cheesecake and gives every bite balance.

Get The Cheesecake Filling Right

The filling is the guts of your cheesecake. Use high quality cream cheese, fresh cream and a hint of vanilla to get a smooth texture. Whip the ingredients just enough to get a smooth consistency, don’t overmix as this can introduce air bubbles and cause cracks during baking.

Portion Control Is Key

Mini cheesecakes are all about the size, so use a muffin tray or silicone molds for uniform portions. Fill each liner to about ¾ full to allow for the filling to rise without overflowing. The perfect portion means every bite is satisfying but not overwhelming.

Baking With Care

Baking mini cheesecakes requires finesse. Bake them at a low temperature (around 160°C) to avoid cracks or overbaking. Use a water bath by placing the muffin tin in a larger pan with hot water to keep the cheesecakes moist and creamy.

Cooling Is King

Let the mini cheesecakes cool slowly, once baked, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks. Then transfer them to the fridge for at least 2-3 hours to set completely.

The Ganache

The ganache is the star of the show, use dark chocolate for the best flavor and melt it with fresh cream to get a smooth finish. Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecakes and let it set slightly before decorating.

Top With Flair

Garnish your mini cheesecakes. Add fresh berries, cocoa powder, edible gold dust, or caramel sauce. These toppings not only make them look pretty but also add contrasting notes to the flavor.

Serve With Panache

Presentation matters when serving these little goodies. Serve them on a tiered dessert stand or colourful plates for a fancy schmancy look. Mini cheesecakes with chocolate ganache are perfect for parties, tea parties or an intimate dinner.