The luscious combination of creamy mascarpone and rich Nutella creates an indulgent mini cheesecake that’s sure to impress. These little bites of heaven sit atop a buttery chocolate cookie crust, delivering a perfect contrast of texture and flavor. Whether served at an intimate dinner or displayed on a party platter, their polished look and deep chocolatey taste make them a standout treat.
These Nutella Mascarpone Mini Cheesecakes are more than just dessert — they’re a celebration in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re easy enough for beginner bakers and elegant enough for special occasions. Chill, garnish, and get ready for the compliments to roll in.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
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8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup Nutella
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
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Chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
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In a small bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined.
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Divide the mixture evenly among the liners and press firmly into the bottoms to form the crust. Set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat mascarpone and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
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Add sugar and mix until well incorporated.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and Nutella. Mix until smooth and uniform.
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Spoon the filling evenly over the prepared crusts in the muffin tin.
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Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the centers are set and slightly jiggly.
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Allow cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
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Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped hazelnuts, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 22 minutes | Total Time: 37 minutes + chilling
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
A Luxurious Bite-Sized Dessert Experience
Nutella Mascarpone Mini Cheesecakes are the kind of dessert that bridges comfort and elegance in one creamy, chocolatey bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, these mini cheesecakes deliver everything you crave — rich flavor, creamy texture, and an aesthetic that feels upscale with minimal effort.
These individual portions are incredibly versatile, easily dressed up with whipped cream, fresh berries, or chopped hazelnuts. Their compact size makes them ideal for dessert trays, special occasions, or anytime you want to enjoy a treat without committing to a full slice. With a lush Nutella swirl and smooth mascarpone base, they embody the best of modern dessert trends: elevated, individual, and absolutely irresistible.
Why Nutella and Mascarpone Work Together So Well
Combining Nutella and mascarpone cheese is a dessert match made in heaven. Nutella brings its signature blend of cocoa and hazelnuts, giving the dessert a sweet, nutty warmth that’s immediately recognizable. Mascarpone, an Italian cream cheese known for its buttery richness, balances the sweetness with a silky, tangy creaminess.
Unlike standard cream cheese, mascarpone adds depth and a delicate softness, enhancing the overall texture. When blended with Nutella, the result is a mousse-like filling that feels both decadent and smooth on the palate. This pairing doesn’t just taste great — it elevates the dessert from casual to gourmet with very little extra effort.
The Appeal of Mini Cheesecakes
There’s something inherently charming about mini desserts. They’re cute, convenient, and perfect for portion control — even though it’s hard to stop at just one! Mini cheesecakes bake faster than full-sized ones and don’t require special springform pans. The use of a standard muffin tin means anyone can make them, even beginner bakers.
More importantly, mini cheesecakes allow for better texture control. Their small size means more even baking, reducing the chances of over- or undercooked centers. Plus, they’re easy to store and serve — no slicing, plating, or fussing needed.
Ideal for Make-Ahead Desserts
Another reason Nutella Mascarpone Mini Cheesecakes are a winning dessert is their ability to be made ahead of time. These cheesecakes need to be chilled after baking, which makes them perfect for planning ahead. Simply prepare them the day before your event or dinner, and they’ll be ready to serve the next day, firm and fully set.
This also makes them ideal for entertaining. When your dessert is already chilling in the fridge, you have more time to focus on other aspects of your meal. Just garnish before serving, and you’re ready to impress.
A Versatile Canvas for Toppings and Twists
These mini cheesecakes are a delight as-is, but they also serve as a great base for personalization. A dollop of whipped cream, a few chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel can take them in different directions, depending on your mood or the occasion.
You can also adjust the crust for variation. While chocolate cookie crumbs give them a deep, rich base, you could easily switch it up with graham cracker crumbs, Biscoff, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet edge.
For seasonal flair, consider topping them with fresh berries in the summer, crushed peppermint in winter, or edible flowers for springtime gatherings.
A Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages
One of the best things about Nutella Mascarpone Mini Cheesecakes is their universal appeal. Children adore the creamy, chocolatey flavor, while adults appreciate the indulgent richness and refined presentation. They’re suitable for birthdays, baby showers, family gatherings, or even as a special treat in lunchboxes.
They also work wonderfully on a dessert buffet, where variety is key. Their compact size allows guests to sample other desserts without feeling overindulgent — but don’t be surprised if these disappear first.
No Need for a Water Bath or Fancy Tools
Classic baked cheesecakes often come with a long list of requirements: water baths, springform pans, and careful baking techniques to prevent cracks. Mini cheesecakes, however, simplify the process.
Because they’re small and cook evenly, there’s no need for a water bath to regulate the temperature. Using a muffin tin and paper liners, you’ll still get that rich, creamy texture with a fraction of the effort. This makes the recipe beginner-friendly without compromising on flavor or visual appeal.
Storage and Shelf Life
These mini cheesecakes store beautifully, making them a smart choice for those who like to bake in bulk or prep ahead. Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to freeze them, wrap each cheesecake individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to a month and can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Freezing doesn’t affect the flavor or texture significantly, especially if you wait to add your toppings until after they’re thawed. This adds to their practicality as a dessert that’s both delicious and low-maintenance.
Tips for Perfecting the Texture
Even though this recipe is easy, a few tips can help ensure a perfect batch every time:
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Bring dairy to room temperature: This makes the filling easier to blend and prevents lumps.
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Avoid overmixing the eggs: Once the eggs are added, mix just until combined. Overbeating can cause cracks or make the texture too airy.
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Let them cool gradually: Sudden temperature changes can cause the cheesecakes to sink or crack. Allow them to cool at room temperature before chilling.
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Chill thoroughly: Refrigeration helps the filling set completely and gives the flavors time to meld together.
Pairing Suggestions
These cheesecakes pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with espresso or cappuccino for a European-style dessert course, or offer them alongside a glass of dessert wine like Moscato or port for an adult-friendly treat.
If you’re looking for non-alcoholic options, a rich hot chocolate or hazelnut-flavored coffee enhances the dessert’s core flavors without overpowering them.
You can also serve them as part of a dessert platter with fresh fruit, dark chocolate pieces, or even scoops of gelato to offer a more complete and varied end to your meal.
Conclusion: A Gourmet Treat with Everyday Simplicity
Nutella Mascarpone Mini Cheesecakes strike the perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity. Their rich flavor, creamy texture, and easy preparation make them a go-to for anyone wanting to impress without the stress. Whether you’re preparing for a big event, a small dinner, or just a weekend indulgence, this dessert delivers every single time.
They offer gourmet flavor with accessible ingredients, require no special tools, and store like a dream — all while looking like they came from a boutique bakery. If you’re a fan of Nutella or just looking to try something new in your dessert rotation, these cheesecakes are the perfect place to start.