Name: Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; ½ cup melted semi-sweet chocolate; ¾ cup chocolate ganache (or melted chocolate for hats); Whipped cream or frosting (for beards); Mini candy-coated chocolates or white chocolate chips (for noses); Strawberries or chocolate cones (optional, for hat shape); Powdered sugar (for dusting ‘snow’)

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If you’re looking to add a whimsical twist to your holiday dessert lineup, these Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes are an absolute showstopper. Picture rich and creamy mini chocolate cheesecakes nestled in a crumbly chocolate cookie crust, each topped with a luscious ganache hat, a fluffy whipped cream beard, and a cute candy nose dusted with powdered sugar “snow.” These delightful little gnomes bring festive cheer and deliciousness all in one bite, making them a perfect treat for Christmas parties or cozy family gatherings. You’re about to discover how to turn classic cheesecake into a charming edible art piece that everyone will adore.

Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient for these Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes plays a crucial role, from creating a sturdy, chocolatey base to building that luxuriously creamy filling and, of course, the playful decorations that bring the gnomes to life. The magic lies in simple components that come together to achieve texture, depth, and festive appeal.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: Choose finely crushed Oreos or your favorite chocolate cookies for a rich and crunchy crust foundation.
Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the cookie crumbs and give a buttery flavor that balances the chocolate.
Cream cheese: The star of the filling, softened for a silky, smooth cheesecake texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling without overpowering the chocolate’s richness.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a subtle tang and moistness, keeping the cheesecake light and velvety.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
Eggs: Create structure and help the cheesecake set perfectly.
Melted semi-sweet chocolate: Infuses the filling with deep cocoa goodness for that unmistakable chocolate cheesecake taste.
Chocolate ganache or melted chocolate: For the adorable hats that crown each gnome with glossy elegance.
Whipped cream or frosting: Piped into fluffy beards that add charm and texture.
Mini candy-coated chocolates or white chocolate chips: These serve as the cute little noses, adding pops of color and fun.
Powdered sugar: Lightly dusted for a snowy effect that completes the magical holiday look.

How to Make Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or silicone molds. These will make it super easy to remove your mini cheesecakes once they’re chilled, keeping the shape intact and the edges clean. Using foil or parchment liners is a great tip if you want picture-perfect results every time.

Step 2: Create the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press about a tablespoon of this mixture firmly into each lined muffin cup to form a solid base. Bake the crusts for 5 minutes to set them, then let them cool while you prepare the filling. This step ensures your cheesecake will have a crisp and chocolaty foundation that supports the creamy filling beautifully.

Step 3: Whip Up the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and mix until fluffy. Incorporate sour cream and vanilla extract for moistness and flavor. Stir in melted semi-sweet chocolate until your batter looks glossy and decadent. Finally, gently beat in eggs one at a time, taking care not to overmix to prevent cracks during baking. This mixture is where all the creamy heaven of your Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes comes to life.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake

Divide the silky filling evenly over the pre-baked crusts, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the centers just set and still have a slight jiggle. After baking, cool them gradually—first in a slightly open oven, then at room temperature, and finally chilled in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight for the best texture. This slow cooling provides that perfect, dense yet creamy consistency.

Step 5: Decorate Your Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes

This is the magical moment where your cheesecakes become festive gnomes. Prepare your ganache hats by stirring melted chocolate chips with hot cream to create a glossy, smooth topping. Let this cool until slightly thick but still spreadable. Pipe whipped cream or frosting to sculpt fluffy beards, then top each gnome with a candy nose just beneath the hat. Finally, dust powdered sugar on top to mimic the sparkle of winter snow, and voila—adorable edible gnome faces ready to charm your guests!

How to Serve Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes

Garnishes

Enhance the festive feel by dusting your Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes lightly with powdered sugar to evoke a snowy scene from a holiday storybook. You can also sprinkle some edible glitter or finely chopped nuts around the plate for texture and sparkle. Adding a few fresh mint leaves nearby adds a refreshing green contrast to the rich chocolate hues, elevating the presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these chocolaty delights with fresh fruit or a tangy berry compote to balance the richness. Warm spiced drinks like mulled wine, hot cocoa, or cinnamon-infused coffee complement the deep cocoa flavor perfectly. If you want to amp up the indulgence, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful holiday centerpiece, arrange the Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes on a tiered dessert tray surrounded by pine sprigs and fairy lights. You can also serve them in clear mini jars tied with red and green ribbons for gift-giving or party favors. Using themed cupcake wrappers with holiday patterns instantly adds charm, making your dessert table feel merry and bright.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week, or to impress guests without extra effort.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save extra batches, these cheesecakes freeze beautifully. Wrap each mini cheesecake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since these cheesecakes are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is generally not necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This brings out the creamy richness without risking any melting of the decorations.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of sour cream in the filling?

Yes! Regular yogurt can substitute for sour cream, although Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness and tang. Using yogurt keeps the cheesecake moist while adding a subtle acidity to balance the sweetness.

Do I need to use paper cupcake liners?

While not absolutely required, liners or silicone molds make removal much easier and help maintain the cheesecake’s adorable shape. Foil or parchment liners, in particular, peel away cleanly and are great for presentation.

Can I make these cheesecakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chocolate cookie crumbs for a gluten-free chocolate cookie or crushed gluten-free biscuits. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.

What’s the best way to get a smooth ganache for the hats?

Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate and heated heavy cream just off the boil. Stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Let it cool slightly before spreading or piping to achieve that perfect hat shape.

Are Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes suitable for kids to help decorate?

Definitely! Decorating the gnomes is a fun and easy activity for kids. They’ll love piping the whipped cream beards and placing candy noses, making these cheesecakes a joyful project for the whole family during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Gnome Cheesecakes are more than just a dessert—they’re a festive celebration in every bite. Their perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy texture, and playful holiday spirit makes them a delightful addition to any gathering. I can’t wait for you to try making your own batch and witness the smiles these charming little gnomes bring to your table. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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