Swirled Individual Cheesecakes

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Swirled Individual Cheesecakes

This recipe makes approximately 12 standard-sized muffin cups.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1/2 cup almond flour

  • 1 tbsp sweetener (such as erythritol or monk fruit)

  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon

  • Pinch of salt

  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

  • 1/2 cup sweetener

  • 1 large egg, room temperature

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/4 tsp salt

Optional Berry Swirl (as shown in image):

  • 2 tbsp sugar-free raspberry or strawberry jam (or pureed berries)

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).

  • Line a standard muffin tin with 12 paper or silicone liners.

2. Prepare the Crust

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sweetener, cinnamon, and salt.

  • Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

  • Place about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin liner.

  • Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press the crust down firmly until it is flat and even.

  • Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove them from the oven and set aside to cool slightly. Lower the oven temperature to 160°C (325°F).

3. Create the Cheesecake Filling

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetener together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

  • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and salt.

  • Mix on low speed just until combined. Avoid over-mixing at this stage, as it can introduce air bubbles that may cause the cheesecakes to rise and then sink.

4. Fill the Cups

  • Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the muffin liners, filling each one about 3/4 full over the pre-baked crusts.

5. Add the Swirl Effect

  • Place 2 or 3 small dots of your berry jam or puree on top of the cheesecake batter in each cup.

  • Using a toothpick or a thin skewer, gently swirl the jam into the batter in a circular motion to create the pattern seen in the photo.

6. Bake

  • Place the tin in the center of the oven and bake at 160°C (325°F) for 15–18 minutes.

  • The edges should be set and look slightly puffed, but the centers should still have a very slight “jiggle” when you gently shake the pan.

7. Cool and Set

  • Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool completely in the pan at room temperature.

  • Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) to allow them to firm up completely before removing the liners.

Pro-Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature before starting. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth texture.

  • Avoid Cracks: Don’t open the oven door during the first 12 minutes of baking. A steady temperature helps the cheesecakes set evenly.

  • Storage: These keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or you can freeze them for up to a month.

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