If you love the classic combination of chocolate and mint, these Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are about to become your new favorite dessert. With a rich chocolate graham cracker crust, a creamy mint-infused cheesecake filling, and a smooth chocolate topping finished with chopped Andes candies, these mini treats deliver bakery-quality flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, parties, or make-ahead desserts, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are as impressive as they are easy to prepare.
These individual cheesecakes are baked low and slow for a velvety texture, then chilled to perfection. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply craving a mint chocolate dessert, this recipe offers the ideal balance of sweetness, creaminess, and refreshing mint flavor.
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Why You’ll Love These Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
There are plenty of reasons why Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes stand out from traditional cheesecake recipes.
First, the individual size makes them perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. No slicing required, and each portion looks beautiful and professional.
Second, the flavor combination is irresistible. The chocolate graham cracker crust adds a slightly crunchy, cocoa-rich base, while the mint cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy. The melted chocolate topping and chopped Andes mints enhance the mint chocolate flavor and create a stunning finish.
Another reason to love these Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes is their make-ahead convenience. They can be prepared in advance, chilled overnight, and even frozen for later use. This makes them ideal for holiday dessert trays, Christmas parties, or special occasions when you want to plan ahead.
Ingredients for Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
Here’s what you’ll need to create these decadent Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes. Each ingredient plays an important role in flavor and texture.
• Chocolate graham cracker crumbs: Form the chocolatey base and add structure to the crust.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake filling.
• Melted butter: Binds the crust together and adds rich flavor.
• Cream cheese: The foundation of the cheesecake filling, providing creaminess and body.
• Egg: Helps set the filling and creates a smooth, firm texture.
• Mint extract: Infuses the cheesecake with its signature refreshing mint flavor.
• Green food coloring: Optional, but enhances the visual appeal with a soft minty hue.
• Chocolate chips: Melted for a glossy, rich topping.
• Andes mint candies: Chopped and sprinkled on top for texture and bold mint chocolate taste.
• Nonstick baking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal from the pan.
Using full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended for the best texture in your Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes. It creates a richer, smoother result compared to low-fat alternatives.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
If you need to adjust the recipe, here are some helpful substitutions for Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes:
• Use regular graham crackers plus 1–2 tablespoons of cocoa powder if chocolate graham crackers are unavailable.
• Swap mint extract for peppermint extract in equal amounts for a slightly stronger mint flavor.
• Replace chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a deeper, less sweet topping.
• Use a standard muffin tin lined with cupcake liners if you do not have a mini cheesecake pan.
For a gluten-free version of Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes, substitute gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust.
How to Make Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes Step by Step
Follow these detailed instructions to achieve perfectly creamy Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes every time.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Lightly spray a mini cheesecake pan with nonstick baking spray. If using a muffin tin, line it with cupcake liners for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, two tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of each cavity, gently compacting it with the back of a spoon.
- In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and remaining sugar on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to eliminate lumps.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the egg, mint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring. Mix just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as too much air can cause cracks in your Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes.
- Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crusts. Smooth the tops gently with a spatula.
- Bake for about 20–25 minutes. The centers should look set but still slightly soft. Do not open the oven door during baking, as temperature changes can lead to cracking.
- Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon. Allow the mini cheesecakes to cool gradually for 5–10 minutes inside the oven.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to fully set.
- Once chilled, carefully remove each cheesecake from the pan. If using a mini cheesecake pan with removable bottoms, gently push them up from underneath.
- Melt the chocolate chips according to package instructions. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of melted chocolate onto each cheesecake and spread gently.
- Immediately sprinkle chopped Andes mint candies over the chocolate topping. Refrigerate until the chocolate is fully set.
These steps ensure your Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes turn out smooth, creamy, and beautifully finished.
Expert Tips for Perfect Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
To achieve bakery-quality results, keep these tips in mind:
Always bring your cream cheese and egg to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a silky, lump-free batter.
Do not overmix after adding the egg. Overmixing incorporates excess air, which can cause the cheesecakes to puff up and crack as they cool.
Avoid opening the oven during baking. Stable heat is key to preventing surface cracks in Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes.
Allow gradual cooling in the oven with the door slightly open. This slow temperature transition helps maintain a smooth texture.
For clean presentation, wipe your knife between cuts if you are trimming edges or adjusting the tops.
Store leftover Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
They also freeze beautifully. Wrap each cheesecake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Ideas and Flavor Variations
These Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are versatile and easy to customize.
For a festive holiday touch, drizzle white chocolate over the top for contrast. You can also add whipped cream swirls before serving for extra elegance.
If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, mix mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter. This creates a mint chocolate chip cheesecake effect inside each bite.
Serve Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes alongside coffee, espresso, or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert pairing. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent presentation.
For a lighter variation, reduce the sugar slightly and use dark chocolate topping to balance sweetness.
Because these are individually portioned, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are ideal for dessert platters, bridal showers, baby showers, and holiday cookie exchanges.
Storage and Make-Ahead Guide
One of the biggest advantages of Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes is their make-ahead convenience.
After chilling, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They maintain their texture and flavor for several days, making them perfect for entertaining.
To freeze, double-wrap each mini cheesecake to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a sturdy container and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw the cheesecakes in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature to maintain their creamy consistency.
Preparing Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes in advance allows you to focus on other dishes when hosting, while still serving a stunning dessert.
Nutritional Overview
While Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are undeniably indulgent, their small size helps with portion control. Each mini cheesecake delivers rich flavor in a manageable serving.
They contain a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and a small amount of protein from the cream cheese and egg. Because they are individually portioned, it is easier to enjoy a satisfying dessert without overindulging.
For those who appreciate classic cheesecake but want something visually appealing and party-ready, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes offer the perfect solution.
With their creamy mint filling, chocolate graham crust, and signature Andes candy topping, these mini cheesecakes combine texture, flavor, and presentation in one irresistible dessert. Whether you are baking for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes deliver impressive results every single time.
Final Thoughts on Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes bring together everything you want in a dessert: creamy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and a refreshing burst of mint in every bite. Their individual size makes them convenient to serve, while the chocolate graham cracker crust and smooth mint cheesecake filling create a bakery-style experience right at home.
Whether you are baking for a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or simply to satisfy a mint chocolate craving, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes offer dependable results and impressive presentation. With proper preparation, careful mixing, and gradual cooling, you will achieve perfectly set, crack-free mini cheesecakes every time.
Because they can be made ahead and even frozen, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are a stress-free dessert option that does not compromise on flavor. Once you try them, they are sure to become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
How do I prevent cracks in Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes?
To prevent cracks in Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the egg, as excess air can cause the cheesecakes to rise and fall too quickly. Bake at a consistent temperature and do not open the oven door during baking. Allow the cheesecakes to cool gradually by turning off the oven and propping the door open slightly before removing them. This slow cooling process reduces sudden temperature changes that often lead to cracking.
Can I make Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes without a mini cheesecake pan?
Yes, you can easily make Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes in a standard muffin tin. Simply line the muffin cups with paper liners for easy removal. While a mini cheesecake pan with removable bottoms provides a more polished look, a muffin tin works perfectly and produces the same delicious mint chocolate flavor and creamy texture.
Can Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes be frozen?
Absolutely. Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes freeze very well. After chilling completely, wrap each mini cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to maintain their smooth and creamy consistency.
How long do Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. For the best texture and flavor, keep them chilled until serving. If topped with melted chocolate and Andes mints, allow the topping to fully set before covering and storing.
More Relevant Recipes
- Mini Orange Cheesecakes Recipe: These individual cheesecakes offer the same creamy, smooth texture and elegant presentation as Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes, but with a bright citrus twist. Perfect for parties and special occasions, they deliver a rich cream cheese filling in a perfectly portioned size, making them ideal for dessert platters and holiday gatherings.
- Peppermint Oreo Truffle Balls Recipe: If you love the mint chocolate flavor combination in Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes, these peppermint Oreo truffles are a must-try. They feature a smooth, chocolatey center infused with refreshing peppermint and coated in rich chocolate, creating a festive, bite-sized dessert with bold mint flavor.
- Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake: This decadent cheesecake blends a creamy filling with a rich, indulgent topping, much like Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes combine luscious cheesecake and chocolate. It’s a show-stopping dessert that layers bold flavors and smooth texture, perfect for celebrations or when you want an impressive, bakery-style treat.
Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes feature a rich chocolate graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy mint-infused cheesecake filling, and a decadent melted chocolate topping finished with chopped Andes mint candies. Perfect for parties, holidays, and make-ahead desserts, these bite-sized cheesecakes deliver the ultimate chocolate and mint flavor combination in every creamy bite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crust)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces (2 packages) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 4 drops green food coloring (optional)
- 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 15 Andes mint candies, coarsely chopped
- Nonstick baking spray, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly spray a mini cheesecake pan or line a standard muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 4 tablespoons melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crust mixture evenly among the cavities and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to form an even layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon mint extract, and green food coloring. Mix on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crusts and smooth the tops gently.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the centers are set but slightly soft in the middle.
- Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon. Allow cheesecakes to cool in the oven for 5–10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Melt 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips according to package instructions. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each mini cheesecake.
- Immediately sprinkle chopped Andes mint candies on top. Refrigerate until the chocolate is fully set before serving.
Notes
- Bring cream cheese and egg to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Do not overmix after adding the egg to prevent cracks.
- Avoid opening the oven during baking to maintain a steady temperature.
- Mini cheesecakes can be frozen for up to 2 months if tightly wrapped.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 176 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 58 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0.03 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg