No Bake Turtle Mini Cheesecakes are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, rich caramel, velvety chocolate, and crunchy pecans, all nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust. These individual-sized desserts are perfect for gatherings, offering a sophisticated taste without the need for baking.Knedir Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No-Bake Convenience: Ideal for warm days or when the oven is occupied.
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Individual Portions: Perfectly sized for serving at parties or events.
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Decadent Flavor Combination: The classic turtle trio—caramel, chocolate, and pecans—complements the creamy cheesecake beautifully.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld and saving time on the day of serving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
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1 cup graham cracker crumbs
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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5 tablespoons unsalted butter, meltedFacebook+2Home+2Belly Full+2
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup powdered sugar
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 cup heavy whipping creamFacebook+3Knedir Recipes+3Sugar Apron+3NorthEast Nosh Recipes+5Naomi\’s Recipes+5Knedir Recipes+5
For the Topping:
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Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
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¼ cup heavy cream
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Chopped pecans
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Mini chocolate chips (optional)Pillsbury.com+6Naomi\’s Recipes+6Knedir Recipes+6Dance Around the Kitchen+4Knedir Recipes+4Sugar Apron+4Sugar Apron
Directions
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Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottoms of a 12-cup muffin tin lined with paper liners. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well combined.
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Assemble the Cheesecakes: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts, filling each cup nearly to the top. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
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Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped semi-sweet chocolate and ¼ cup heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
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Add Toppings: Once the cheesecakes are set, drizzle each with caramel sauce, followed by a spoonful of chocolate ganache. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips on top.
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Serve: Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Remove paper liners before serving, if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
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Preparation Time: 30 minutes
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Chilling Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
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Nut-Free Version: Omit pecans for those with nut allergies.
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Different Crusts: Use crushed chocolate cookies or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.
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Flavor Twists: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the filling for a mocha flavor, or incorporate a fruit puree for a fruity variation.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze cheesecakes without toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add toppings before serving.
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Reheating: Not applicable, as these are best served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works well. Ensure it’s of good quality for the best flavor.
How can I make homemade caramel sauce?
Combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, and ½ cup heavy cream in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a golden brown color. Allow to cool before using.
Print
No Bake Turtle Mini Cheesecakes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no bake turtle mini cheesecakes are creamy, rich, and layered with a crunchy graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake filling, gooey caramel, chocolate drizzle, and chopped pecans. A decadent bite-sized dessert that’s perfect for parties or anytime sweet cravings hit!
Ingredients
Makes 12 mini cheesecakes
For the crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers, crushed)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the toppings:
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1/4 cup caramel sauce
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1/4 cup chocolate sauce or melted chocolate
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1/3 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
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Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press about 1–2 tablespoons into the bottom of each lined muffin cup. Chill in the fridge while making the filling.
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Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
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Assemble: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture over each crust, smoothing the tops. Chill for at least 2–3 hours, or until firm.
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Top and serve: Drizzle with caramel and chocolate sauce, then sprinkle with chopped pecans. Serve chilled.
Notes
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Use store-bought caramel and chocolate sauce for convenience.
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For a chocolate twist, use Oreo crumbs instead of graham crackers.
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Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American