Miniature Espresso Cheesecakes

Submitted by MizEmerilLagasse

"Bite size espresso cheesecakes. Found on another website for a New Year's party."

 

• Ready In: 20mins
• Ingredients: 8
• Serves: 15

ingredients

• 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
• 1 (2 1/8 ounce) package frozen miniature phyllo tart shells, thawed
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream, divided
• 1⁄2 teaspoon instant espresso powder
• 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 ounce bittersweet chocolate

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Place almonds in a single layer in a shallow pan. Bake at 350°, stirring occasionally, 5 to 7 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
2. Place thawed pastry shells on a baking sheet, and bake at 350° for 3 to 5 minutes or until crisp.
3. Stir together 1 tablespoons cream and 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder in a small microwave-safe ramekin or cup. Microwave at HIGH 10 seconds; stir until espresso is dissolved.
4. Beat cream cheese and sugars at medium-high speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add espresso mixture, and beat 30 seconds or until creamy and light. Spoon 1 rounded teaspoonful into each phyllo shell.
5. Microwave chocolate and remaining 1 tablespoons cream in a small microwave-safe ramekin or cup at HIGH 20 seconds, stirring after 10 seconds and at end until smooth. Spoon 1/4 teaspoons chocolate mixture over each tart. Top immediately with almonds. Cover and chill 2 hours or up to 24 hours.