Recipes

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Cups

December 15, 2024
christian

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Cups are a delightful and elegant dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the aromatic flavor of real vanilla beans. Perfect for entertaining or a special treat at home, these individual cheesecake cups are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious vanilla bean filling, this recipe is a must-try for any cheesecake lover. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create these delicious Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Cups.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries or whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of serving cups or a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners to form the crust. Set aside.
  2. Make the cheesecake filling: In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and the seeds from the vanilla bean, mixing until well combined.
  3. Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Incorporate sour cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until just combined. This will add richness and a smooth texture to the cheesecake filling.
  5. Fill the cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the filled cups in a baking dish and add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool.
  7. Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow them to set completely.
  8. Serve: Before serving, top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Cups!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cheesecake filling?

While homemade cheesecake filling is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought filling in a pinch. However, it may not have the same depth of flavor as using real vanilla beans.

How do I store leftover cheesecake cups?

You can store leftover Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them well to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze cheesecake cups?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake cups. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a mixture of cream cheese and a little milk to achieve a similar consistency.