Craving something exotic and elegant? These Dragon Fruit Mini Cheesecakes are not only stunning to look at, but they’re also a delight to eat! The vibrant color and subtle sweetness of dragon fruit pair perfectly with the creamy cheesecake base. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough for special occasions. Let’s dive in and create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dragon fruit puree (from fresh or frozen dragon fruit)
- Zest of 1 lime (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased muffin tin to form the crusts.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sugar and continue beating until well combined. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lime zest if using.
- Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Incorporate the Dragon Fruit: Gently fold in the dragon fruit puree, creating a beautiful marbled effect if desired.
- Fill the Muffin Tins: Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crusts in the muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top.
- Bake the Cheesecakes: Bake the mini cheesecakes for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are just set. Allow them to cool in the tin before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, remove the mini cheesecakes from the tin, garnish with a slice of fresh dragon fruit, and serve!
Notes:
- For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
- If you prefer a more intense dragon fruit flavor, you can increase the amount of puree.
- These mini cheesecakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different fruit puree?
- Yes, mango or raspberry puree would work wonderfully with this recipe.
- Can I make this recipe into a full-sized cheesecake?
- Absolutely! Simply adjust the baking time to about 50-60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Is there a vegan option?
- Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with non-dairy versions and use a flax egg in place of regular eggs.
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If you run into any issues or have questions about this recipe, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the perfect dessert.
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