Are you craving a decadent dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! These individual Oreo cheesecakes are the perfect blend of creamy, dreamy cheesecake and the irresistible crunch of Oreos. They're easy enough for a weeknight treat, yet elegant enough to impress guests at your next gathering. Get ready to dive into a world of delicious homemade cooking with this quick dinner idea that’s also a healthy meal option (in moderation, of course!). This recipe is one of the best recipes you'll find for a satisfying and easy dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Oreo Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 6-ounce ramekins or muffin tins. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Divide the Oreo mixture evenly among the prepared ramekins, pressing firmly into the bottom to create a solid crust.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. A hand mixer works perfectly for this step.
- Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
- Stir in the heavy cream until just combined. Don't overmix.
Bake the Cheesecakes:
- Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the Oreo crusts in each ramekin.
- Place the ramekins in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come about halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a water bath that prevents cracking).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecakes are set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the water bath. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecakes to fully chill and set.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, run a thin knife or offset spatula around the edges of each cheesecake to loosen them from the ramekins.
- Carefully invert the cheesecakes onto serving plates.
- Garnish with extra crushed Oreos, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Room temperature is key: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water bath magic: The water bath helps create a gentle, even baking environment and prevents cracks.
- Flavor variations: Get creative! Add chocolate chips, peanut butter, or different extracts to the filling for unique flavor combinations. Consider using different cookie crumbs for the crust as well.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 25-30g Protein: 5-7g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These individual Oreo cheesecakes are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavor and simple preparation make them a crowd-pleaser, whether you're hosting a party or simply enjoying a sweet moment at home. Enjoy!