1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or silicone baking cups.
- Mix the Crust Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the Crust:
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each muffin cup. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon or a small glass to form an even layer.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar:
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fill the Muffin Tin:
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake the Cheesecakes:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecakes cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Chill:
- Transfer the cheesecakes to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
3. Add the Topping
- Top with Caramel Sauce:
- Before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over each mini cheesecake.
- Sprinkle Pecans:
- Sprinkle the chopped toasted pecans over the caramel sauce.
- Optional Chocolate Garnish:
- If desired, garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
4. Serve
- Enjoy:
- Serve the mini cheesecakes chilled. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Success
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cheesecakes to avoid overbaking. They should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings with other nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
These Turtle Mini Cheesecakes are sure to be a hit with their creamy texture, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a decadent treat that’s both elegant and easy to serve!