Description
These Luscious Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are delicate and creamy mini cheesecakes featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, fragrant culinary lavender in the cheesecake filling, and a sweet-tart homemade blackberry topping. Perfect for elegant gatherings or a special treat, these individual cheesecakes balance floral notes with juicy berries in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely ground
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased mini cheesecake pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually blend in sour cream, eggs, finely ground culinary lavender, and vanilla extract until fully combined and silky. Pour this creamy mixture over the chilled crust in the mini cheesecake pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecakes: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the filled pan for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheesecakes are set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven, allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled and firm.
- Prepare the Blackberry Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blackberries, 1/4 cup sugar, water, and lemon zest. Cook gently, stirring occasionally until the berries break down and release their juices, forming a slightly thickened topping. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cooled blackberry topping generously over each mini cheesecake before serving. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the creamy lavender cheesecake with the fresh, fruity topping.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Use culinary lavender specifically made for cooking to avoid bitterness.
- For a more vibrant topping, mash some blackberries slightly while cooking.
- Mini cheesecake pans help create perfect individual servings and reduce baking time.
- The cheesecakes can be made a day ahead and stored refrigerated for best flavor and texture.
