Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups, finely crushed Digestive Biscuits (or Graham Crackers)
  • 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (for crust)
  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted
  • 24 oz Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened, room temperature
  • ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (for filling)
  • 3 Large Eggs, room temperature
  • ¼ cup Full-Fat Sour Cream (or Greek Yoghurt), room temperature
  • 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to a gentle 325°F (160°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Make the Base: Combine crushed biscuits, 2 Tbsp sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the Base: Scoop 1 heaping tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each liner. Press down firmly. Pre-Bake the bases for 5 minutes. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
  4. Cream the Cheese: Using an electric mixer on the lowest speed, beat the softened, room-temperature cream cheese until perfectly smooth, about 2 minutes. Stop frequently to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  5. Add Sugar and Flavour: Gradually incorporate the remaining ¾ cup sugar until just combined. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
  6. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing only until the yellow yolk disappears into the batter. Do not overmix, as excessive mixing causes cracking.
  7. Fill the Tins: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over the pre-baked crusts, filling the liners almost to the top (about 80-90% full).
  8. Bake: Bake for 22–25 minutes. The edges should appear set, but the centre should still have a slight wobble.
  9. Slow Cool: Turn the oven off, prop the door open slightly, and leave the cupcakes inside for 30 minutes. Remove and allow them to cool completely on the counter (about 30 minutes).
  10. Chill and Set: Transfer the muffin tin to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 3 hours, preferably 4-6 hours or overnight, until completely firm.
  11. Garnish & Serve: Carefully peel away the paper liners and garnish as desired (such as with fresh berries or coulis). Serve chilled.