
These festive mini cheesecakes are the kind of crowd-pleasing dessert that seem to disappear the minute you set them out. Bold swirls of red white and blue sprinkles make them extra fun for summer celebrations and they are super easy thanks to golden oreos for the base no crust fuss. I started making these for Fourth of July picnics and now they are my go-to whenever I want something eye-catching without spending all day in the kitchen.
The first time I baked these little cheesecakes my niece insisted on adding more sprinkles than the recipe said and honestly that became our new favorite touch. It is almost impossible not to smile while making or eating them.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: this is the foundation for classic rich texture be sure to use full-fat blocks not whipped tubs and let it soften for the smoothest batter
- Granulated white sugar: brings sweetness without overpowering the tang of cream cheese always use fresh sugar for a clean taste
- Vanilla extract: deepens the dessert’s flavor real vanilla shines here over imitation
- Large eggs: these bind everything together always use them at room temperature for easy mixing
- Red white and blue sprinkles: add festive color in the batter and as garnish choose a confetti style or jimmies for best melt free results
- Golden oreos: each serves as a perfect buttery base check for unbroken cookies when you shop
- Whipped cream: classic topping for a light finish use freshly whipped or a high-quality spray can
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Place cupcake liners in your muffin pan slots then put a whole golden oreo into each liner This quick move replaces the hassle of making a crumb crust and gives just the right cookie crunch
- Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- Mix softened cream cheese sugar and vanilla until super smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer The key is not to rush this step creamy batter yields velvety mini cakes
- Add the Eggs:
- Reduce mixer speed to low Add eggs one at a time beating just until blended after each The batter should look glossy and barely streaky Overmixing leads to cracks and dryness
- Fold in Sprinkles:
- Using a spatula gently stir in the first portion of red white and blue sprinkles Fold just enough so the colors are dotted throughout without breaking up the sprinkles
- Fill the Liners:
- Spoon or pour the cheesecake batter into each liner until three quarters full Make sure to fill evenly for the best bake
- Top with Extra Sprinkles:
- Scatter the rest of the sprinkles on top of each mini cheesecake Some sinks in slightly for that peekaboo effect which I adore
- Bake:
- Slide into a 350F oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes The edges will look set while the centers jiggle This subtle wobble means creamy not overdone middles
- Chill Thoroughly:
- Let cool to room temp then place in the fridge for at least two hours Chilling makes them firm enough to hold and boosts that classic cheesecake flavor
- Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving top with whipped cream and more sprinkles My family loves making each one a little different

I am especially fond of the golden oreo crust because it stays crisp under all that creamy filling I remember my nephew stacking extras on his and calling it the “double cookie special” so do not hesitate to experiment with crunch
Storage Tips
Store leftover mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator They taste even better the next day once the flavors meld If needed you can also freeze them just skip the whipped cream until serving Thaw overnight in the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use chocolate sandwich cookies for a bolder base or swap in gluten free cookies if needed If you are low on vanilla a bit of almond extract gives a new twist Any color sprinkles make this recipe work for holidays and birthdays year-round
Serving Suggestions
Pile these on a big platter at summer cookouts or serve each on its own mini plate for an extra fancy touch They also make a great grab-and-go dessert for picnics or potlucks My family likes to put a cherry or blueberry on top for extra stars and stripes flair

Recipe Inspiration
Mini cheesecakes have deep roots in American home baking The tray bake convenience and bold celebration colors reflect our love of easy entertaining and festive presentation This version lightens the usual process so you get all the creamy results without stress
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade cookie bases instead of golden Oreos?
Yes, any round vanilla cookie works well as a base, but golden Oreos provide a consistent texture and flavor.
- → How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecakes?
Avoid overmixing the batter, especially after adding the eggs, and do not overbake to keep centers creamy.
- → Can I freeze these mini cheesecakes?
Absolutely. Freeze without whipped cream topping in an airtight container for optimal freshness up to one month.
- → What’s the best way to garnish before serving?
Top with freshly whipped cream and an extra handful of red, white, and blue sprinkles right before serving.
- → Can I substitute the sprinkles for other decorations?
Feel free to use chocolate shavings, fruit, or themed toppings to match your celebration.