Irresistible Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups Recipe

Imagine sinking your spoon into a velvety cup of Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups, where rich chocolate mingles with the warm embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite feels like a cozy hug on a winter evening, and the aroma wafts through the air like an invitation to indulge.

These delightful cheesecake cups are perfect for holiday gatherings or a casual movie night. The anticipation builds as you take that first taste, promising a flavor explosion that dances on your palate and leaves you craving more.

I remember the first time I made these cheesecake cups; my friends devoured them in minutes, begging for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling that blends effortlessly with other ingredients.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake perfectly without overpowering its flavors.

• Cocoa Powder: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder; it enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs provide structure and richness to the cheesecake cups.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; skip imitation for better results.

• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices offer warmth and comfort, embodying the essence of hot cocoa.

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

• Butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together while adding richness to the crust.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups

To create these delectable cheesecake cups from scratch, let’s break it down into simple steps.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line muffin tins with cupcake liners for easy serving and cleanup.

Make the Graham Cracker Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press about one tablespoon of this mixture into each cupcake liner firmly.

Create the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add cocoa powder, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix until fully incorporated.

Fill Your Cups: Spoon the cheesecake mixture over each crust in your prepared muffin tins. Fill them about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.

Bake and Chill: Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Allow them to cool before refrigerating for at least two hours or until firm.

Now you have delightful Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups ready to impress family and friends!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the crust first while the cheesecake mixture chills. This ensures everything sets perfectly and saves time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chocolate for white chocolate or add a dash of peppermint extract for a festive twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store these cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating is necessary; enjoy them chilled!

A friend once told me these Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups made her forget about her diet during a holiday party.

FAQ

Can I make Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge.

What is the best way to serve these cheesecake cups?

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.

How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake surface?

Avoid overmixing and ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before blending.

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Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups

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Delight in the velvety richness of Spiced Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Cups, where luscious chocolate meets the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights, each bite offers a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. These easy-to-make cheesecake cups are visually stunning and a guaranteed hit at any dessert table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 cheesecake cups 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line muffin tins with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press one tablespoon into each liner to form the crust.
3. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add cocoa powder, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix until fully combined.
4. Spoon the filling into each crust, filling three-quarters full.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool before refrigerating for at least two hours until firm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cheesecake cup (50g)
• Calories: 166
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 47mg

Keywords: Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor. Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature to avoid lumps. For a festive twist, consider adding peppermint extract or swapping dark chocolate for white chocolate.