Midwestern Maple Walnut Cheesecake Bites
Midwestern Maple Walnut Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized cheesecakes are a twist on a classic American dessert, featuring the rich flavors of maple syrup and walnuts from the heartland of the United States. Easy to make and fun to serve, they're perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
š Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Maple syrup
- 8 ounces Cream cheese
- 2 eggs Large eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Walnuts
- 2 tablespoons Confectioners' sugar
šØāš³ Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- 2
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
- 3
Step 3: Press about 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
- 4
Step 4: Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- 5
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add maple syrup and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- 6
Step 6: Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- 7
Step 7: Stir in chopped walnuts.
- 8
Step 8: Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 of the way full.
- 9
Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
- 10
Step 10: Allow the cheesecakes to cool completely in the pan before dusting with confectioners' sugar.
š” Pro Tips
To ensure the cheesecakes hold their shape, don't overmix the batter. Also, make sure to chill the cheesecakes for at least 30 minutes before serving. For an extra-sweet treat, drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving.