These cheesecakes are flavor bombs and so easy to make! They are best with preserves, but if you can’t find them, use jam (for more flavor).
For the crust:
- 8 full size graham crackers (125 grams if using store bought graham cracker crumbs)
- 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature*
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup (180 grams) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (80 grams) SEEDLESS blackberry preserves or jam
- 1 tablespoon additional blackberry preserves
For topping:
- 2 cup (190 grams) fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
For the crust:
- Set 12 silicone cupcake molds or parchment cupcake liners in a cupcake pan.
- Place the graham crackers in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add in the melted butter and pulse until moistened.
- Divide the mixture among the cavities of the cupcake pan, about 1 tablespoon in each (you may have leftovers, but don’t add more to crusts.).
- Press into the bottom of each cavity (a shot glass or other small object makes easy work of this). Set aside.
For the cheesecake:
- Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium-high speed until creamy and well combined.
- Add in the cream, lemon juice, and 1/4 c. preserves and continue beating for about 3 minutes, until well combined and thickened.
- Add in extra tablespoon preserves and slowly beat until preserves are distributed, but still have large flecks.
- Divide the mixture among the molds and cover with plastic wrap.
- Chill until firm, at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- Once cheesecake is firm, put on topping and return to refrigerator.
- The cheesecake can be stored, covered, in the fridge for up to 2 days.
For the topping:
- Combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice in the bowl of a blender or food processor and pulse until pureed.
- Strain with fine mesh strainer.
- Distribute the topping on each of the cheesecakes.
- Place cheesecakes in the freezer for 20 minutes before serving to firm up.
Adapted from Tessa Arias, Turn Up the Heat