Craving cheesecake but don't want a whole pie? This recipe delivers all the creamy, dreamy goodness of classic cheesecake in a perfectly portioned size for two. It's a fantastic easy recipe, perfect for a romantic night in, a cozy solo treat, or a quick and delicious dessert when you don't want leftovers. This homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for even beginner bakers. Get ready to indulge in this healthy-ish (we promise!) and incredibly satisfying dessert!
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 2 full graham crackers, finely crushed (about 1/4 cup crumbs)
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
- For the filling:
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature – this is crucial for a smooth cheesecake!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
-
Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the crushed graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of two small ramekins or oven-safe mugs.
-
Make the filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer or a whisk until smooth and creamy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Don't overmix!
-
Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crusts in the ramekins. Place the ramekins in a larger baking dish. Pour enough hot water into the larger dish to come about halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a water bath, preventing cracks).
-
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
-
Cool and chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
-
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Room temperature cream cheese: This is non-negotiable for a smooth, creamy cheesecake.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks.
- Water bath: The water bath helps create a gentle, even baking environment.
- Don't overbake: A slightly jiggly center is fine; it will firm up as it cools.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cheesecake: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the filling.
- Lemon Cheesecake: Add the zest and juice of 1/2 a lemon to the filling.
- Strawberry Cheesecake: Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh strawberries to the filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This is an approximate estimation and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This quick dinner alternative (or delicious dessert!) is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's the best recipe for a simple yet satisfying treat, proving that homemade cooking can be both delicious and convenient. Enjoy!