Description
These Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are the epitome of elegance and flavor, making them perfect for any special occasion. With a delightful combination of a graham cracker crust, a creamy lavender-infused cheesecake filling, and a vibrant blackberry topping, each bite-sized treat promises a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh blackberry, these mini cheesecakes are not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Ingredients
Blackberry Topping:
- 6 oz (180g) blackberries, pureed and strained
- 5 tbsp (65g) sugar
- 2 ½ tsp cornstarch
Crust:
- ¾ cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp (26g) sugar
- 3 tbsp (42g) butter, melted
Lavender Cheesecake Filling:
- 12 oz (339g) cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (104g) sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp (12g) flour
- ¼ cup (58g) sour cream
- 2 tsp lavender extract
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- Violet gel icing color, optional
Whipped Cream Topping:
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 4 tbsp (29g) powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Violet gel icing color, optional
- 12–14 blackberries
Instructions
Prepare Blackberry Topping:
- In a food processor, puree the blackberries until smooth. Strain the puree to remove seeds.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the berry puree, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring consistently until thickened. Remove from heat and refrigerate until cooled.
Make Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners and spray with non-stick spray.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottoms of cupcake liners. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Prepare Cheesecake Filling:
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and flour until combined. Add sour cream, lavender extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add gel icing color if desired.
Bake Cheesecakes:
- Divide cheesecake batter among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes, then turn off oven and let cheesecakes sit for 10 minutes with the door closed.
- Crack oven door and let cheesecakes cool for 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate until firm.
Assemble Cheesecakes:
- Once cooled, remove cheesecakes from pan. Spoon blackberry filling onto each cheesecake.
Make Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a mixer, whip cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Add gel icing color if desired.
Finish and Serve:
- Pipe whipped cream onto cheesecakes and top each with a fresh blackberry.
Notes
Serving:
- These Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve them as a sophisticated dessert at parties, brunches, or any special occasion to impress your guests with their elegant appearance and delicious taste.
- Garnish each cheesecake with a fresh blackberry and a dollop of whipped cream just before serving to add a final touch of elegance.
Storage:
- Store any leftover Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To maintain their freshness, cover the container with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before sealing it with the lid.
- Avoid freezing the cheesecakes as the texture may become compromised upon thawing.
- If you need to transport the cheesecakes, place them in a chilled cooler or insulated bag to keep them cold and prevent the whipped cream from melting.