Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mini Turtle Cheesecakes combine the best parts of a turtle candy—chocolate, caramel, and nuts—into a luxurious mini cheesecake. The creamy filling is balanced by a crunchy crust and topped with caramel and chocolate, creating a perfectly indulgent treat. Plus, they’re individually sized, making them ideal for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as a personal indulgence. You can enjoy all the classic turtle flavors without the mess or hassle of traditional candy!

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream

For the topping:

½ cup pecans, chopped
½ cup caramel sauce
¼ cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon heavy cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup in a muffin tin. Use a spoon to pack it down firmly. Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Beat until the mixture is smooth.
Assemble the mini cheesecakes: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each muffin cup about ¾ full. Bake the cheesecakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
Prepare the topping: While the cheesecakes are chilling, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once toasted, set aside. In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce over low heat until warmed through. Melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
Assemble the topping: Once the cheesecakes are fully chilled, drizzle each one with caramel sauce, followed by a sprinkle of toasted pecans. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top for that signature turtle effect.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours minimum (overnight for best results)

Variations

Nut-Free: If you’re looking for a nut-free version, simply leave out the pecans and use a store-bought caramel or chocolate topping.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy substitute for the sour cream, ensuring that all the ingredients are dairy-free.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie crust to make these cheesecakes completely gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: These cheesecakes are best served chilled and don’t need reheating. If desired, you can microwave them briefly (15-20 seconds) to warm the topping, but they’re delicious when served cold.

FAQs

1. Can I make these mini cheesecakes in advance?

Yes, these mini cheesecakes need time to chill, so they are perfect for making in advance. They can be made a day or two ahead and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in turtle desserts, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different twist.

3. How do I prevent cracks in my mini cheesecakes?

To minimize cracks, make sure not to overmix the batter, and bake the cheesecakes at a moderate temperature (325°F). Cooling them gradually (first in the pan, then on a wire rack) helps reduce cracking.

4. Can I freeze the mini cheesecakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecakes before adding the caramel, pecans, and chocolate. After baking and cooling, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and top with the caramel and chocolate before serving.

5. How do I store leftover mini cheesecakes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be individually wrapped and frozen for longer storage.

6. Can I make these without a muffin tin?

If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can use a mini cheesecake pan or tartlet pan. Just make sure to line the pan with parchment paper or use a non-stick pan for easy removal.

7. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce to save time. Just make sure to warm it up a bit before drizzling over the cheesecakes.

8. Can I make the crust with a different type of cookie?

Yes, you can use chocolate wafer cookies, digestive biscuits, or even shortbread cookies for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity based on the type of cookie.

9. How long do these mini cheesecakes need to chill?

For the best results, allow the cheesecakes to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight in the fridge to ensure they set properly.

10. How can I make the cheesecakes extra creamy?

Make sure to beat the cream cheese mixture well to achieve a smooth consistency. Using full-fat cream cheese and sour cream will also help create a richer, creamier texture.

Conclusion

Mini Turtle Cheesecakes are a delightful, bite-sized dessert that brings together all the flavors of a classic turtle candy in a creamy, indulgent cheesecake. The combination of crunchy graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake filling, and gooey caramel with toasted pecans and chocolate drizzle is a winning combination. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these mini cheesecakes are sure to become a favorite!