Bailey’s Irish Cream Mini-Cheesecakes

Bailey’s Irish Cream, known for its smooth and creamy flavor with a hint of Irish whiskey, adds a delightful twist to these mini-cheesecakes. Perfect for dessert lovers and fans of Irish spirits alike, these mini-cheesecakes are a bite-sized indulgence that captures the essence of Bailey’s in every creamy, rich bite. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating your own Bailey’s Irish Cream mini-cheesecakes that are perfect for celebrations, parties, or simply treating yourself to a sweet, boozy delight.

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Base:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 12 ounces (1.5 cups) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Bailey’s Irish Cream Ganache:

• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons Bailey’s Irish Cream

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings
• Fresh berries

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Base

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
4. Place a spoonful of the graham cracker mixture into each paper liner, pressing it down firmly to create a compact base for your mini-cheesecakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Bailey’s Irish Cream, eggs, pure vanilla extract, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Liners

1. Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly into the muffin liners, on top of the graham cracker bases.

Step 4: Bake the Mini-Cheesecakes

1. Bake the mini-cheesecakes in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers are slightly jiggly.
2. Remove the mini-cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes.
3. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Bailey’s Irish Cream Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Remove the cream from heat and add the semisweet chocolate chips and Bailey’s Irish Cream.
3. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth.

Step 6: Decorate with Ganache

1. Spoon a dollop of the Bailey’s Irish Cream ganache over the top of each mini-cheesecake.

Step 7: Garnish and Chill

1. If desired, garnish the mini-cheesecakes with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
2. Refrigerate the mini-cheesecakes for at least 2-3 hours or until they are well chilled and set.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve your Bailey’s Irish Cream mini-cheesecakes to your delighted guests or enjoy them as a delectable treat for yourself.

 

Bailey’s Irish Cream mini-cheesecakes are a decadent delight that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the smooth, indulgent flavor of Bailey’s. These bite-sized treats are perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or any time you want to savor a sweet, boozy indulgence. With a graham cracker base, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious Bailey’s Irish Cream ganache, these mini-cheesecakes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy a bite of blissful indulgence!