Name: Instant Pot Mini Turtle Cheesecake Bites
Prep time: PT-486958H13M25S
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 2 tablespoons sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Pinch of salt 16 oz cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs 1/4 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Instant Pot Mini Turtle Cheesecake Bites are the ultimate combination of rich, creamy cheesecake and the decadent flavors of a turtle candy. The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare individual cheesecakes that are perfectly cooked every time. The creamy cheesecake filling is topped with gooey caramel, melted chocolate, and crunchy toasted pecans—just like the classic turtle candy! With the help of your Instant Pot, you’ll have delicious cheesecakes in no time, making this recipe both convenient and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Pinch of salt

For the filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup heavy cream

For the topping:

1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

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

Directions

Prepare the crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into each silicone mini cheesecake mold or muffin liner (make sure the molds fit inside the Instant Pot’s trivet). Press the mixture down firmly to create an even base for the cheesecake.
- Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fully combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the heavy cream and mix until the filling is smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the cheesecakes:
- Spoon the cheesecake filling into each mini mold, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Tap the molds gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Cook in the Instant Pot:
- Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the trivet in the pot and carefully arrange the molds on top of the trivet. Ensure the molds are not touching the water.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the molds from the Instant Pot and let them cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Prepare the toppings:
- While the cheesecakes are chilling, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.
- Heat the caramel sauce slightly so it’s easier to drizzle, if needed.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Assemble the turtle toppings:
- Once the mini cheesecakes have fully chilled, drizzle each with caramel sauce and melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans on top of each cheesecake for that signature turtle candy crunch.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the mini turtle cheesecakes chilled, and enjoy the combination of creamy cheesecake, rich caramel, smooth chocolate, and crunchy pecans!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 mini turtle cheesecakes, depending on the size of your molds. The preparation time is about 20-30 minutes, with 8 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot and 2 hours of chilling time. Be sure to chill the cheesecakes in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

Nut-Free: Skip the pecans if you’re allergic or don’t like them. You can substitute with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or omit them entirely for a simple turtle-inspired cheesecake.
Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel sauce to add a sweet-and-salty twist to the topping.
Chocolate Ganache: Instead of melting chocolate chips, make a simple chocolate ganache with heavy cream for a smoother, richer topping.
Mini Turtle Cheesecake Bites: For even smaller individual portions, you can use mini muffin pans instead of silicone molds.

Storage/Reheating

Store the mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These cheesecakes are best served chilled, so be sure to refrigerate them until ready to enjoy. These mini cheesecakes are not suitable for freezing because the texture of the filling may change after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use regular cupcake liners instead of silicone molds?

Yes, you can use regular cupcake liners, but silicone molds are ideal for easier removal. If using cupcake liners, be sure to place them in a muffin tin for structure.

Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?

Yes! These mini cheesecakes can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just chill them in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I skip the chocolate topping?

While the chocolate adds a delicious layer to the turtle cheesecake, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler caramel and pecan topping.

Can I use a graham cracker crust from the store?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crusts work fine for this recipe. Just press them into the molds and follow the rest of the steps for the filling and toppings.

Can I make these cheesecakes in a regular cheesecake pan?

You can use a 7-8 inch cheesecake pan in the Instant Pot instead of individual molds. Just increase the cooking time to 25-30 minutes and adjust the serving size accordingly.

Can I use non-dairy substitutes?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, along with a non-dairy heavy cream substitute for a dairy-free version. The texture may vary slightly but the flavors should still be delicious.

Can I make these mini cheesecakes without an Instant Pot?

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can bake the mini cheesecakes in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 20-25 minutes or until set. Just be sure to use a water bath for even cooking.

How do I prevent the crust from being too soggy?

Be sure to press the graham cracker crumbs tightly into the molds, and bake the crusts for 5-7 minutes to help them firm up before adding the cheesecake filling.

How do I know when the mini cheesecakes are done?

The cheesecakes are done when they’re slightly puffed and firm around the edges but still a little jiggly in the center. They will set more as they cool.

Can I make these mini cheesecakes in a larger pan?

Yes, you can make these cheesecakes in a larger pan (such as a 7-8 inch springform pan), but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Typically, it will take around 25-30 minutes in the Instant Pot.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Mini Turtle Cheesecake Bites are an indulgent and easy-to-make dessert that combines the classic flavors of turtle candy with a creamy cheesecake filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, offering a rich combination of caramel, chocolate, and pecans atop a smooth, creamy cheesecake base. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can whip up these mini cheesecakes quickly, making them a perfect dessert for any time you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special. Enjoy every bite of this sweet, decadent delight!

Instant Pot Mini Turtle Cheesecake Bites