Bite Size Goat Cheese and Walnut Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely ground walnuts
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 5 ounces soft goat cheese, like montrachet
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives, plus addt'l for garnish
• 1 teaspoon finely diced red bell pepper
• 9 walnut pieces (to garnish)

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. 2

   Butter 18 mini muffin tins (gems).

3. 3

   Combine the first three ingredients with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.

4. 4

   Place heaping teaspoonfuls off walnut mixture into each mold and press down firmly.

5. 5

   In another bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy.

6. 6

   Add the goat cheese and beat until creamy.

7. 7

   Add the egg and beat until thoroughly combined.

8. 8

   Add the chives and the remainder of salt and pepper.

9. 9

   Divide the goat cheese mixture between the cups and smooth the tops.

10. 10

    Place a walnut piece on top of nine cheesecakes.

11. 11

    Top the remaining with diced peppers.

12. 12

    Bake until puffed- approx 15 minutes.

13. 13

    Cook on wire rack for 5 minutes before unmolding.

14. 14

    Garnish with chives and serve warm or cold.