# What You Need:
→ Crust
01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
04 - 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 tablespoons sour cream
→ Topping
09 - 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries, diced
10 - 2 tablespoons fruit preserves, optional
→ Decoration
11 - Graduation-style diploma picks
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cupcake liners.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly moistened.
03 - Distribute 1 teaspoon of crust mixture into each liner and press firmly to compact.
04 - Bake crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
05 - Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
06 - Add egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
07 - Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling into each prepared crust, smoothing tops evenly.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until centers are set but retain slight jiggle when pan is gently shaken.
09 - Remove from oven and allow to cool in the muffin pan for 15 minutes.
10 - Transfer cheesecake bites to a wire rack and cool to room temperature.
11 - Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until fully set.
12 - Top each cheesecake bite with fresh berries. Optionally, warm fruit preserves and brush lightly over berries for glossy finish.
13 - Insert diploma picks into each cheesecake bite immediately before serving.
