Description
St. Patrick’s Day! With vibrant rainbow layers, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a hidden “pot of gold” surprise inside, these bite-sized treats are as magical as they are delicious. The smooth, rich cheesecake pairs perfectly with a crunchy graham cracker crust, making every bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating with family, hosting a party, or just want a fun baking project, these mini cheesecakes will bring joy to everyone!
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Gel food coloring: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple
For the “pot of gold” surprise:
- ½ cup gold sprinkles or edible gold pearls
For topping:
- Whipped cream
- Additional gold sprinkles
- Chocolate gold coins (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, cornstarch, sour cream, and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently until just combined.
- Divide batter into six bowls and color each with gel food coloring to create rainbow layers.
Layer the Cheesecakes
- Start with purple batter and spoon a small amount into each muffin cup. Repeat with blue, green, yellow, orange, and red, carefully layering each color.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until set. Let cool completely.
Add the “Pot of Gold” Surprise
- Use a small knife or spoon to create a tiny cavity in the center of each cheesecake.
- Fill with gold sprinkles or edible gold pearls, then top with whipped cream.
Decorate and Serve
- Sprinkle additional gold decorations on top. Add chocolate gold coins if desired.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering the batter consistency.
- Cheesecakes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American