No Bake Turtle Mini Cheesecakes
No-Bake Turtle Mini Cheesecakes bring together creamy cheesecake, caramel, chocolate, and pecans for a delightful bite-sized treat. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cheesecakes are perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
- 1 cup finely ground graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Caramel sauce store-bought or homemade, recipe below
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate finely chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Prepare 12 baking cups, or use panettone baking cups (I used 2 3/8 x 2-inch) or mini springform pans.
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until fully combined, then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of each paper cup using a shot glass to form a firm layer. Place the cups in the fridge to chill while you continue with the recipe.
In the meantime, use an electric mixer to whisk the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Add the heavy cream and continue mixing until the mixture thickens to a mousse-like consistency. Spoon 4-5 tablespoons of the filling onto the crusts, then return to the fridge to chill.
When ready to serve, melt the chocolate and stir in the heavy cream. Drizzle 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce over each cheesecake. Then, top with a dollop of chocolate ganache, spreading it carefully to cover the caramel.
Finish by sprinkling chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips on top for garnish. Keep the cheesecakes refrigerated until ready to serve.
Homemade Caramel Sauce
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into 6 pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1 teaspoon salt
In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients. Simmer over low heat, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes less watery (about 6-9 minutes). Keep in mind that it will continue to thicken as it cools.