Directions
-
Prep your molds: Begin by lining a standard 12-cup mini muffin tin with silicone liners or paper cupcake liners. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) if you prefer baking your crust.
-
Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Golden Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Use about 1 tablespoon of this mixture to press into the bottom of each liner, ensuring an even base.
-
For the baked option: If you choose to bake, place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. Allow them to cool completely afterward. Alternatively, for the no-bake lovers, simply chill the crusts for at least 30 minutes to set.
-
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth. Gradually mix in the sour cream, then add the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well incorporated. Stir in vanilla and lemon juice, then gently fold in the diced strawberries or puree.
-
Fill the crusts: Spoon or pipe the creamy cheesecake mixture into each crust, filling them nearly to the top. Don’t forget to tap the tray gently to release any air bubbles trapped inside.
-
For the baked version: Bake in the oven at 325°F for about 20–25 minutes, until they are slightly jiggly in the center. Allow them to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. If you opted for the no-bake version, simply chill for 3–4 hours, or until firm.
-
Make the crunch topping: Combine the crushed Golden Oreo crumbs with strawberry gelatin (or freeze-dried powder) and melted butter in a bowl. For a baked topping, spread this mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes. If you choose not to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to firm up slightly before crumbling it into a sandy texture.
-
Assemble: Just before serving, generously press a pinch of the strawberry crunch topping onto each cheesecake bite. You can elevate their appeal with optional garnishes like whipped cream, fresh strawberry halves, or a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate.
Continue reading on the next page 👇👇