Bacon Cheesecake Bites

Directions

1. 1
   Place an oven rack in the center of the oven.
2. 2
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 24-count mini-muffin pan with paper liners.
3. 3
   For the crust: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
4. 4
   Add the crumbs and stir until the mixture forms clumps.
5. 5
   For the filling: Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
6. 6
   Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 8 minutes.
7. 7
   Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and drain on paper towels.
8. 8
   In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese, pumpkin, maple syrup, egg, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt together until smooth.
9. 9
   Mix in the cooked bacon.
10. 10
    Using the bottom of a shot glass or a small glass bottle, press 1 teaspoon of crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
11. 11
    Using a small ice-cream scoop, scoop 2 tablespoons of filling batter on top of each crust and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
12. 12
    Cool for 20 minutes and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.