MINI GINGER-ALMOND CHEESECAKES

Mini Ginger-Almond Cheesecakes image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Time 1h

Yield Makes 10

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs (from about 30 cookies)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
3/4 cup cold heavy cream
2 tablespoons sliced blanched almonds (optional), toasted

Steps:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line 10 standard muffin cups with cupcake liners. In a food processor, pulse together cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, salt, and butter until combined. Divide crumb mixture among cupcake liners, firmly pressing into bottoms and up sides. Bake until crusts are browned and fragrant, 10 minutes. Let cool completely in pan on a wire rack at room temperature.
In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese on high until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add confectioners' sugar and almond extract and beat until smooth. In another medium bowl, with clean beaters, beat cream on high until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir one-third the whipped cream into cream cheese mixture, then gently fold in remaining. Divide mixture among cooled crusts and refrigerate until set, 1 hour (or up to overnight). To serve, top with almonds, if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 327 g, Fat 24 g, Protein 3 g