1-First Step: Set up the pan Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners. This makes the cheesecakes easy to remove and serve. If you want a more polished presentation for a party, use pretty liners or plain white liners for a clean look.

2-Second Step: Make the crust Add the vegan graham crackers and sugar to a food processor. Pulse until fine crumbs form, then pour in the melted vegan butter and pulse again until the mixture looks sandy. It should hold together when pinched. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to pack it down firmly. This helps the crust stay together when you lift the mini cheesecakes out later. Optional crust bake For a firmer crust, bake at 350°F for 5 minutes, then let it cool completely. This extra step is not required, but it does give the base a slightly crispier bite. If you are short on time, skip the bake and chill the crust instead.

3-Third Step: Mix the filling Place the softened vegan cream cheese, coconut cream or coconut milk, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla in the food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed so there are no lumps. Room temperature vegan cream cheese makes the smoothest filling, so do not skip that step if you can help it. Taste the filling and add a little more lemon juice or zest if you want a brighter flavor. Coconut cream gives a firmer set than coconut milk, so choose it when you want a denser cheesecake texture.

4-Fourth Step: Fill the cups Spoon about 3 tablespoons of filling over each crust in the muffin cups. Smooth the tops lightly with the back of a spoon. Do not worry if they are not perfect, because the topping will finish the look later. At this stage, the mini cheesecakes already look like a cute party dessert. They are also easy to move into the fridge because each one is in its own cup.

5-Final Step: Chill and serve Refrigerate the cheesecakes for 3 to 4 hours, or freeze them for 1 to 2 hours if you need them sooner. They should feel set and firm before you add the toppings. Once they are ready, finish with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a spoonful of pre-made pie filling. These mini desserts are perfect for anyone who likes portable sweets that travel well. If you enjoy easy make-ahead treats, you may also want to try these chocolate chip cheesecake bars for another party-friendly dessert.