Get ready for a treat with these Mini Black Forest Cheesecakes! They're a fun twist on the classic Black Forest cake. Perfect for any special moment, these little cheesecakes mix creamy cheese, yummy cherries, and tasty chocolate in just the right size for one.

Whether you're throwing a birthday party, having a special dinner, or just want something sweet for yourself, these mini cheesecakes are easy to make and sure to be a hit.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is. Seriously, anyone can master these dreamy dessert cups. You just mix, layer, and chill, how great is that? No ovens or fancy kitchen gadgets required, just a couple of bowls, a mixer, and your favorite cups.

Let's get started and see how quickly they disappear!

Mini Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk
• 8 oz block of cream cheese, softened
• 1 sleeve chocolate graham crackers, crushed
• 2.03 oz packet of instant chocolate pudding
• 21 oz can of cherry pie filling
• Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)

Directions:

1. Mix the Pudding:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding. Grab that hand mixer and go at it on medium/high speed for about 2 minutes. Pop this mix into the fridge to set for about 5 minutes.

2. Creamy Cheese Mix:

   • In another mixing bowl, give that softened cream cheese a good beat on medium/high for about 1 minute to make it fluffy. Add 1 cup of the pudding to the cream cheese and keep beating until it's nice and smooth, about 30 seconds.

3. Layering Fun:

   • Start with a layer of your creamy cheese and pudding mixture at the bottom of your cups.
   • Sprinkle a generous layer of those yummy crushed chocolate graham crackers next.
   • Slather on another layer of that rich chocolate pudding.
   • Spoon some juicy cherry pie filling over the top.
   • Sprinkle mini chocolate chips to crown your creation.

Note:

The number of servings really depends on how much you fill each cup and the size of the cups you're using. Play around with the layering and quantities to suit your taste and cup size!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any kind you have on hand, almond, soy, oat, or regular dairy milk all work great in this recipe. Just make sure it blends well with the pudding mix.

2. What can I use instead of chocolate graham crackers?
No chocolate grahams? No problem! You can use regular graham crackers, Oreo crumbs, or even vanilla wafers for a twist. Each option adds a unique flavor and crunch.

3. Is there a lighter version of this dessert?
For a lighter take, you can use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar-free pudding mix. You might also try a lighter cherry topping or fresh cherries if you're feeling adventurous!

4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these dream cups are perfect for prepping ahead! Assemble them up to a day in advance and keep them chilled in the fridge. Just add the mini chocolate chips right before serving to keep them nice and crunchy.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for sneaking a little treat after the kids go to bed!

6. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Sure thing! If you have a favorite homemade chocolate pudding recipe, it can definitely replace the instant mix. Just make sure it’s cooled before you start layering.

7. What other toppings work well with this recipe?
Get creative! Try sprinkling some crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra yumminess.

So grab your spoons (and maybe even a little whipped cream to top things off) and get ready to enjoy a dessert that's as fun to look at as it is to eat. The cherry and chocolate flavor of these mini cheesecakes will quickly become your new favorite treat!