Mini Cheesecakes with Salted Caramel Swirl: The Perfect Bite-Sized Dessert

If you’re a fan of sweet and salty desserts, you’re going to fall in love with these Mini Cheesecakes with Salted Caramel Swirl. They’re creamy, rich, and perfectly portioned — ideal for parties, holidays, or just a little indulgence anytime. And that buttery caramel swirl on top? Pure magic.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup sour cream
• Pinch of salt

For the Salted Caramel Swirl:

• ½ cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

Equipment Needed

• 12-cup muffin tin
• Paper or foil cupcake liners
• Hand or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Small spoon or skewer (for swirling)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each cupcake liner, pressing firmly.
4. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt and mix until creamy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed.
4. Mix in the sour cream until just combined — don’t overmix!

Pro Tip:
Overmixing adds air to the batter, which can cause your cheesecakes to crack!

3. Fill and Swirl

1. Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over each crust — about 2 to 2½ tablespoons per cup.
2. Warm the caramel sauce slightly so it’s pourable, then stir in the sea salt.
3. Drop small spoonfuls of salted caramel on top of each mini cheesecake.
4. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the top.

4. Bake and Cool

1. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
2. Cool the cheesecakes in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Serving Suggestions

• Top each cheesecake with a little extra caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving.
• Garnish with mini pretzels, toasted pecans, or even a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
• Serve chilled — they’re the perfect pop-in-your-mouth dessert!

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Want to freeze them? Wrap each mini cheesecake individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Pro Tip:
These freeze beautifully — perfect for making ahead for parties or gifting!

Final Thoughts

These Mini Cheesecakes with Salted Caramel Swirl are bite-sized bliss. The creamy filling, crunchy base, and salty-sweet caramel swirl come together in a perfect little package. They’re easy to make, easy to serve, and even easier to fall in love with.

Whether for birthdays, showers, or late-night cravings, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Enjoy every delicious bite!

See also:
Mini Oreo Cheesecakes – A chocolatey twist on the mini cheesecake craze!