Single-serving savory cheesecake with basil and cherry tomatoes: a tasty idea for buffets and appetizers

Name: Single-serving savory cheesecake with basil and cherry tomatoes: a tasty idea for buffets and appetizers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 100 g crackers (or Tuc crackers or taralli); 50 g butter; 200 g Philadelphia cream cheese; 20 g Parmesan cheese; 15 basil leaves; 12 g olive oil; salt to taste; 100 g cherry tomatoes; 1 clove garlic; olive oil to taste; salt to taste; pepper to taste

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Starter

Very Easy

1 hour

415 Kcal

These single-serving savory cheesecakes with cherry tomatoes and basil are a tasty, versatile idea, perfect as a cold appetizer, summer finger food, or an option for a buffet. The crunchy cracker-and-butter base supports a velvety cream made with Philadelphia, grated Parmesan, and freshly blended basil. Topped with cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic and extra-virgin olive oil, they have an aromatic, savory touch. The contrast between the crumbly base, soft cream, and warm cherry tomatoes creates a perfect balance of crunchy and creamy textures, with fresh, distinctly Mediterranean flavors.

Materials

8 cm pastry ring
Blender

Preparation

Preparation10 min

Waiting time40 min

Cook time10 min

Finely chop the crackers using a blender.
Transfer the crushed crackers to a bowl, add the melted butter a little at a time, and mix until the mixture has a sandy consistency.
Place the pastry rings on a serving plate and divide the mixture into four equal portions. Press and level the base with a spoon, then place in the freezer for 10–15 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the basil leaves (making sure they are thoroughly dry), extra-virgin olive oil, and Parmesan in the blender. Blend until smooth.
Add the cream cheese and a pinch of salt, then blend again until smooth and even.
Spread the resulting cream over the now-chilled bases, carefully level and place back in the freezer for about 25 minutes.
Heat a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil in a frying pan and brown a whole clove of garlic. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, season with a pinch of salt and a grind of pepper, lower the heat, cover with a lid and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Transfer the cherry tomatoes to a bowl and let them cool slightly while you finish preparing the cheesecakes.
Once the resting time is up, remove the cheesecakes from the freezer, gently take them out of the pastry rings, and top with the warm cherry tomatoes, taking care to remove the garlic.
Decorate with a few fresh basil leaves and serve. The single-serving savory cheesecakes with cherry tomatoes and basil are ready to enjoy.

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FAQ ❓

Can the savory cheesecake be prepared in advance?

Yes, this savory cheesecake can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. We recommend adding the cherry tomatoes just before serving, so they remain warm or at room temperature.

What can I do if I don't have a pastry ring for the single-serving savory cheesecakes?

If you don't have a pastry ring, you can use small glass cups or jars as a practical and elegant alternative. These containers help shape the individual portions and let you serve the cheesecake directly in them, creating a refined presentation that's ideal for buffets or appetizers. There's no need to unmold them: eat directly from the jar!

Why sauté the cherry tomatoes with garlic and oil before adding them to the cheesecake?

Sautéing cherry tomatoes with garlic and extra-virgin olive oil intensifies their flavor and releases an irresistible Mediterranean aroma. In addition, the slight contrast between the warm tomatoes and the cold cream of the savory cheesecake adds a richer, more satisfying touch.

How long should the savory cheesecake rest in the freezer, and why?

The single-serving savory cheesecakes need two resting periods in the freezer: the first, 10–15 minutes to firm up the base; the second, about 25 minutes after adding the cream. This allows each layer to firm up properly and hold its shape.

What can I use instead of crackers for the savory cheesecake base?

You can replace the crackers in the savory cheesecake base with crumbled taralli, breadsticks, or savory rusks. Combined with melted butter, these alternatives make a crunchy, firm base.

What can I use instead of Philadelphia in savory cheesecake?

Philadelphia can be replaced with spreadable cheeses such as robiola, fresh goat cheese, or well-drained ricotta, for a milder, creamier variation.

Can single-serving savory cheesecakes be frozen?

Yes, single-serving savory cheesecakes can be frozen, but it's best to freeze them without the cherry tomato topping. When ready to serve, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and add the fresh topping.

Can I use raw cherry tomatoes instead of sautéing them?

Yes, for an even fresher and quicker version, you can use raw cherry tomatoes. Just season them with extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them on top of the cream. However, sautéed cherry tomatoes give the dish a richer, more aromatic flavor.

How can I make a smooth, well-blended Philadelphia cream with basil?

For a smooth, velvety cream, it's important to blend the thoroughly dried basil leaves with extra-virgin olive oil and grated Parmesan before adding the Philadelphia and a pinch of salt. This step ensures a smooth texture and an even flavor.

Nutrition

for 1 serving / for 100 g

Calories: 415Kcal

Carbo: 14g
Total fat: 33.8g
Saturated fat: 17.6g
Proteins: 12.5g
Fibers: 1.3g
Sugar: 4.1g
ProPoints: 11
SmartPoints: 17

Nutritional information for 1 serving (132g)

Cookware

burner

blender

Attributes

Suitable for freezing

Keep refrigerated

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Daniele Mainieri

Every day, I dive into the world of food and wine with curiosity, always looking for new flavours, recipes and inspiring discoveries to share. From traditional family dishes to the latest food trends, including pairings that make all the difference. I’ve been working in food & wine communication for over 10 years and I’m currently the Editorial Manager for the Italian edition of Petitchef.

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Single-serving savory cheesecake with basil and cherry tomatoes: a tasty idea for buffets and appetizers

Ingredients

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For the topping:

Materials