Graduation & Cheesecake = Bittersweet

Our last baking experience together, for now. Even though Jessie did not get to taste test the final project, they were a hit at a parent/college grad wine and cheese party later in the evening. Our friend Adrian ate about six if that gives you an indicator of how yummy these mini cheesecakes are. What makes them better than your average cheesecake is, for one, the adorable cupcake size, and second, the chocolate chip cookie surprise crust. This recipe has graced the annual family Christmas party since I was a baby so from my family to yours, have a chocolate chip cheesecake on me.

To Jessie, Happy Graduation! Keep baking and keep posting. I can't wait to visit your dream kitchen one day, let's plan on having a baking party every 5 years for our friends. Love you always my favorite ginger!

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cups

-1 package (16oz) chocolate chip cookie dough
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 (8oz each) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
-1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 2 eggs
-1 (21oz) can cherry pie filling (can sub for strawberry or blueberry)

Preheat oven to 375F. Line muffin pans with baking cups and spray with Pam. Slice cookie dough into 24 slices and lay in bottoms of baking cups. Mix remaining ingredients (except pie filling) with electric mixer for about 1 minute. Fill cups with batter approximately 2/3 full. Bake 32-35 minutes. Cool to room temperature and top with cherries. Refrigerate then serve.

Recipe from Aunt Janeen H