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These adorable, single-serve delights perfectly capture all the classic flair of red velvet—soft chocolate notes, a hint of tang, and that eye-catching red hue. Creamy on the inside with a delicate, lightly chocolatey base, these mini cheesecakes offer a luxurious finish that feels downright indulgent without overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a sweet solo treat, these charming desserts are guaranteed to enchant.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (as desired for vibrancy)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
First, prepare your crust by mixing the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened, then press about a tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each paper-lined muffin cup. Press softly with your fingertips or the back of a spoon to form a compact base.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Sift in the cocoa powder and continue blending. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, fold in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and a dash of salt. Adjust the red food coloring until you achieve your perfect velvety hue.
Carefully spoon the batter over each crust, filling the cups about three-quarters full. Bake the cheesecakes for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still have a slight jiggle. Allow them to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to the refrigerator to chill completely—around 2 hours. Top with whipped cream or garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra special flourish.
These Velveteen Dream Mini Cheesecakes are a perfect year-round dessert, especially for those who love the combination of tangy cream cheese and subtle chocolate in a bite-size format. They can work for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or anytime you’re in the mood for a velvety treat. If you’re watching sugar, you can opt for a low-calorie sweetener. Swap the chocolate cookie crumb base for graham crackers or add a dollop of fruit compote on top—the possibilities are expansive. Whatever your preference, these minis are sure to delight every sweet tooth in your life.
