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cranberry orange cheesecake cups recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Cups

Fork And Fry Editorial
These delightful cranberry orange cheesecake cups are a perfect holiday dessert with a burst of citrus and cranberry flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Chill 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 cups
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Muffin pan lined with paper cups
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Electric Mixer

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, beating until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Stir in vanilla and orange zest. Fold in chopped cranberries.
  • Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared crusts in the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the centers are just set. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
  • Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 2 hours to set fully. This step is crucial for the texture and flavor.

Serving

  • Remove the cheesecake cups from the refrigerator. Garnish with additional cranberries or a twist of orange zest before serving.

Storage

  • Store leftover cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Use a water bath to prevent cracks if desired.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free option.
How to Serve: Serve chilled, topped with fresh cranberries or orange zest.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare a day in advance to allow flavors to develop fully.
Keyword citrus cranberry dessert, holiday cheesecake, mini dessert cups