Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well-coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each liner, about a tablespoon per cup, pressing down firmly to form a solid crust.
4. Bake: Bake the crusts for 8–10 minutes or until golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This will take about 2 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
2. Add the Sour Cream and Sugar: Add the sour cream and granulated sugar, and beat until well combined.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the cheesecake batter over the cooled crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Tap the muffin tin gently to remove any air bubbles.
5. Bake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18–20 minutes or until the centers are just set (they should still have a slight jiggle).
6. Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature, then transfer them to the fridge to chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the cheesecakes set perfectly.

Assemble the Turtle Cheesecakes

1. Top with Caramel Sauce: Once the cheesecakes are chilled, drizzle a generous spoonful of caramel sauce over each one. Be sure to coat them evenly for that signature “turtle” look!
2. Sprinkle with Toasted Pecans: Scatter the toasted pecans over the caramel sauce, pressing them lightly into the cheesecake to secure them in place.
3. Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the pecans for an extra touch of sweetness and decadence.
4. Serve: Serve these mini cheesecakes chilled, and watch them disappear in no time!