If you’ve ever dreamt of indulging in the rich, velvety goodness of cheesecake paired with a kick of espresso, then you’ve just stumbled upon a true game-changer. These Mini Espresso Cheesecakes are everything you want in a dessert—decadent, creamy, and with that perfect hint of coffee that makes each bite feel like a little slice of heaven. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.
Picture this: smooth, rich cheesecake on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a coffee-infused espresso layer that adds the perfect touch of boldness. The flavor is balanced just right—creamy, sweet, and with a little caffeine kick that makes them feel extra special. They’re the perfect mini treat for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or bringing something show-stopping to a party. Each little bite is a moment of bliss.
Why You’ll Love Mini Espresso Cheesecakes
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating an experience. Whether you’re sharing these with family, friends, or savoring them by yourself, you’ll appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to make something truly indulgent. Here’s why these cheesecakes are sure to steal the show:
Versatile
Mini cheesecakes are perfect for any occasion! They’re a wonderful choice for a cozy evening with a cup of coffee, but they’re also ideal for parties, brunches, or even as a sweet gift for someone special. These little bites of happiness always get rave reviews.
Budget-Friendly
You don’t have to spend a fortune to create something special. The ingredients for these mini cheesecakes are ones you’ll likely already have in your kitchen—cream cheese, graham crackers, and a bit of coffee magic. It’s an affordable dessert with a luxurious feel.
Quick and Easy
We’re talking about a dessert that’s easy to whip up, even if you’re not a pro baker. The best part? You can make these ahead of time and have them ready to go. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that won’t keep you in the kitchen all day.
Customizable
While the espresso layer is a signature element, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Not a coffee fan? Swap it out for a vanilla or chocolate flavor! These cheesecakes are all about making them your own.
Crowd-Pleasing
I can’t stress this enough—these are an absolute hit every time! Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying them with your family, they always get devoured in seconds. They strike the perfect balance of indulgence and sophistication.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Ingredients in Mini Espresso Cheesecakes
Here’s where the magic begins. The ingredients for these mini cheesecakes are simple, but the flavor they create is nothing short of spectacular. Let’s break it down:
- Cream Cheese: The foundation of every great cheesecake. Smooth, rich, and creamy—this is the ingredient that makes these mini cheesecakes melt in your mouth.
- Graham Crackers: A buttery, slightly sweet crust that adds the perfect crunch to balance out the creaminess of the cheesecake filling.
- Espresso: The hero ingredient. This little kick of espresso adds a depth of flavor that complements the cream cheese like nothing else. It’s bold, it’s warm, and it’s a total game-changer.
- Sugar & Eggs: The sweetness and structure that bring everything together.
- Butter: For the crust, because what’s a cheesecake without a buttery base?
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create these delectable mini cheesecakes:
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This helps ensure the cheesecakes cook evenly and get that perfect, smooth texture.
Make the Crust
In a food processor or by hand, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Combine them with melted butter and sugar, and press this mixture into the bottoms of your mini cheesecake pans or muffin tins. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. This gives the crust a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until everything is well combined. Then, mix in your espresso or coffee powder until it’s fully incorporated. This is where that coffee magic happens! Spoon the filling over the cooled crusts, dividing it evenly between your mini pans.
Bake the Cheesecakes
Place the filled pans in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The cheesecakes should look set but slightly jiggly in the center when done. Let them cool to room temperature, then transfer them to the fridge for at least 3 hours (overnight is best). This helps them set perfectly.
Top with Espresso Whipped Cream
Once the cheesecakes are set, top them with a dollop of espresso-flavored whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish. If you’re feeling extra, you can even sprinkle a little cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve these mini cheesecakes chilled, and watch as everyone’s eyes light up. They’re creamy, rich, and with that perfect espresso punch. Enjoy!
How to Serve Mini Espresso Cheesecakes
These mini cheesecakes are perfect on their own, but here are a few ways to make them even more spectacular:
Fresh Fruit
Top them with a few fresh berries for a pop of color and sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the coffee flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle
For the ultimate indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top. The bitterness of the chocolate pairs so well with the creamy espresso flavor.
A Cup of Coffee
Why not serve them with a cup of coffee or a latte? The espresso flavor in the cheesecakes is the perfect match for your favorite caffeinated beverage.
Whipped Cream
A dollop of fresh whipped cream is a simple yet classic way to serve them. Add a little extra sprinkle of espresso powder on top for an extra touch.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: These mini cheesecakes store beautifully. You can make them the day before and let them chill overnight. Just make sure they’re covered well to stay fresh.
- Make it Dairy-Free: To make these cheesecakes dairy-free, try swapping the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut milk instead of regular milk for the whipped cream.
- Freezer-Friendly: These cheesecakes freeze really well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute regular coffee for espresso powder?
A1: Yes! You can use brewed coffee instead of espresso, but keep in mind it will be a little milder in flavor.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! These mini cheesecakes are a great make-ahead dessert. Just let them cool and chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re just as delicious the next day!
Q4: Can I freeze these cheesecakes?
A4: Yes! Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Q5: What’s the best way to serve these cheesecakes?
A5: These mini cheesecakes are perfect on their own, but if you want to get fancy, top them with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a chocolate drizzle!
Conclusion
Mini Espresso Cheesecakes are a perfect blend of creamy sweetness and bold coffee flavor. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or impress guests, these little delights are sure to make an impact. They’re easy to make, beautifully versatile, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Go ahead and treat yourself—you won’t regret it!
PrintMini Espresso Cheesecakes
These Mini Espresso Cheesecakes are a coffee lover’s dream! Featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, creamy espresso-infused cheesecake filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
For the Crust:
-
20 Oreo cookies, finely crushed
-
½ teaspoon espresso powder
-
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
-
12 ounces (340g) full-fat cream cheese, very soft
-
⅓ cup (76g) sour cream, room temperature
-
½ cup (99g) granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 large egg, room temperature
-
1 large egg yolk, room temperature
-
¼ cup (57ml) heavy cream, room temperature
-
1½ tablespoons (21ml) Kahlua or coffee liqueur (optional)
-
1½ teaspoons espresso powder
For the Ganache:
-
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
-
½ cup (113ml) heavy cream
-
½ teaspoon espresso powder
-
Espresso beans & shaved chocolate, for garnish (optional)
-
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Lightly spray with non-stick baking spray.
-
Make the Crust: Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Mix with espresso powder and melted butter until well combined. Divide the mixture evenly into the cupcake liners, pressing it firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from oven and lower the temperature to 300°F (149°C). Let cool while preparing the filling.
-
Make the Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined. On low speed, mix in the egg and egg yolk just until incorporated (avoid over-mixing). Gently stir in the heavy cream, Kahlua (if using), and espresso powder. Evenly distribute the cheesecake batter over the prepared crusts (cups will be full). Bake for 16 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the door closed for another 10 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
-
Make the Ganache: Place chopped chocolate in a bowl. Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk in espresso powder until smooth. Let ganache cool for 5 minutes, then spoon over each chilled cheesecake. Garnish with espresso beans and shaved chocolate, if desired.
Notes
-
Be sure not to over-mix the cheesecake batter once you add the eggs to avoid cracks.
-
You can substitute the Kahlua with any coffee liqueur of your choice or skip it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
-
-
These cheesecakes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg