Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are elegant, bite-sized desserts that blend the bold sweetness of blackberries with the delicate floral notes of lavender. With a creamy cheesecake filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, these mini treats are as beautiful as they are delicious—perfect for bridal showers, afternoon tea, holidays, or any special occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A unique and sophisticated flavor combo of blackberry and lavender
- Mini-sized portions make for easy serving and sharing
- Creamy, smooth texture with a crisp graham cracker base
- Gorgeous presentation with minimal effort
- Great for make-ahead desserts and freezer-friendly
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Granulated sugar
For the filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sour cream
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Eggs
- Dried culinary lavender, steeped and strained
- Blackberry puree (fresh or frozen blackberries blended and strained)
For the topping (optional):
- Fresh blackberries
- Whipped cream
- Lavender buds or petals (for garnish)
directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or use a mini cheesecake pan.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each liner. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside.
- Steep the lavender: Simmer dried lavender in a few tablespoons of water, then strain and let cool.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla, lavender water, and blackberry puree. Mix until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated—do not overmix.
- Fill the cups: Spoon the filling over the pre-baked crusts, filling each nearly to the top.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until centers are set but slightly jiggly. Let cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish (optional): Top each mini cheesecake with whipped cream, a fresh blackberry, and a sprinkle of lavender buds.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 mini cheesecakes.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: ~2 hours 40 minutes
Variations
- Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread instead of graham crackers for the crust
- Add lemon zest to the batter for extra brightness
- Swirl extra blackberry puree on top before baking for a marbled effect
- Replace lavender with rosemary or thyme for a savory herbal note
- Use a gluten-free cookie base for a gluten-free option
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap each cheesecake individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Do not reheat—these are best served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or dried lavender?
Use dried culinary lavender only. It’s more controlled in flavor and safe for consumption.
What if I don’t have blackberry puree?
Blend and strain fresh or frozen blackberries. Raspberry or blueberry puree also works well.
Do I need a water bath for mini cheesecakes?
No water bath is required—just bake at a lower temperature and don’t overmix.
Can I use a mini muffin pan?
Yes, but reduce bake time to 10–12 minutes and use mini liners.
Are these overly floral?
No, just a subtle lavender note. Adjust to your preference by steeping less or more lavender.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, these are ideal make-ahead desserts. Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Edges will be set, but centers will have a slight jiggle. They’ll firm up more as they cool.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Use a cheesecake recipe with egg substitutes like cornstarch or a vegan cheesecake base if needed.
What’s the best way to decorate them?
Whipped cream, a fresh blackberry, and a tiny pinch of lavender buds make for a gorgeous, minimalist topping.
Can I use a full-size pan instead?
Yes—bake in a springform pan at 325°F for 50–60 minutes, using a water bath.
Conclusion
Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are a stunning and flavorful treat that brings elegance to any dessert table. With their delicate floral aroma, sweet berry flavor, and rich cheesecake filling, these mini delights are sure to impress guests and please palates. Make them for your next celebration or simply to treat yourself to something special—you won’t regret it.
PrintMini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes are creamy, floral, and perfectly sweet, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cheesecake filling infused with subtle lavender. Topped with a vibrant blackberry sauce, they’re elegant, delicious, and ideal for spring gatherings, bridal showers, or anytime you want to impress with a little something special.
Ingredients
For the crust:
-
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
-
2 tablespoons sugar
-
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
-
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1/3 cup sour cream
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1-2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender (steeped — see below)
For the blackberry topping:
-
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
-
2 tablespoons sugar
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
-
Make the crust:
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner. Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool. -
Infuse the lavender:
Heat 2 tablespoons of milk or cream with the dried lavender until just simmering. Let steep for 5–10 minutes, then strain out the lavender buds and cool the liquid. -
Make the filling:
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, vanilla, and the strained lavender-infused cream. Beat until just combined — don’t overmix. -
Fill and bake:
Pour filling evenly over each crust, about 3/4 full. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until centers are set and slightly jiggly. Cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. -
Make the blackberry topping:
In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until berries soften. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let cool. -
Top and serve:
Spoon blackberry topping over each cheesecake before serving. Garnish with extra blackberries or a lavender sprig if desired.
Notes
-
Don’t have dried lavender? You can skip it or use a drop of food-grade lavender extract for a similar touch.
-
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days — best served chilled.
-
Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized versions, adjusting bake time to 10–12 minutes.
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