Save Impress all of the Whos at your Christmas party with these fun and festive neon green mini cheesecakes—perfectly sized, irresistibly creamy, and bursting with holiday cheer!
I first served this at a holiday gathering and immediately became the talk of the party.
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 cup Oreo cookie crumbs (about 10–11 cookies), 2 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- Cheesecake Filling: 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Neon green food coloring (gel recommended)
- Optional Toppings: Whipped cream, Festive sprinkles or red heart sprinkles (for the true Grinch look)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
- Step 2:
- Prepare the crust: In a food processor, pulse Oreo cookies to fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse again until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Step 3:
- Divide the crumb mixture evenly among the liners (about 1 tablespoon per cup) and press down firmly with the back of a spoon or a small glass.
- Step 4:
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating on low after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Step 6:
- Add neon green food coloring, a little at a time, until your desired Grinchy shade is reached.
- Step 7:
- Spoon about 1/4 cup cheesecake batter into each liner, filling them almost to the top.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 15–17 minutes, until the centers are mostly set but still slightly jiggly.
- Step 9:
- Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Step 10:
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and festive sprinkles if desired.
Save These cheesecakes have become a favorite family tradition for holiday celebrations every year.
Notes
For a classic Grinch look use a single large red heart sprinkle on each cheesecake. Cheesecakes can be made ahead and refrigerated for 1–2 days.
Required Tools
12-cup standard muffin pan, Paper cupcake liners, Food processor, Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese butter), eggs, and wheat (Oreos). Double-check labels for possible nut or soy traces if allergies are a concern.
Save Enjoy these festive treats that bring holiday cheer in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the cheesecakes their bright green color?
The vivid green hue comes from neon green gel food coloring, added gradually to achieve the perfect festive shade.
- → Can I substitute the Oreo cookie crumbs for another crust?
Yes, chocolate graham crackers work well as an alternative to Oreo crumbs for a slightly different crust texture and flavor.
- → How long should the mini cheesecakes chill before serving?
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to firm up properly and develop flavor.
- → Are these cheesecakes suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients used do not contain meat products, making them suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- → What is the best tool for crushing the cookie crust?
A food processor is recommended to pulse the cookies into fine crumbs, ensuring an even crust texture.
- → How can I decorate the mini cheesecakes for a classic look?
Top each cheesecake with whipped cream and a single large red heart sprinkle to mimic the iconic Grinch style.