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Cheesecake Bites

Updated on 5 min read

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines creamy goodness with a bite treat, look no further than cheesecake bites! These delightful morsels capture all the rich, luscious flavors of a traditional cheesecake but in a fun and portable form. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet afternoon snack, cheesecake bites are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be made in various flavors and topped with an array of toppings to suit any palate.

Ingredients

To make your cheesecake bites, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)

For Toppings (optional):

  • Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • Chocolate ganache or melted chocolate
  • Caramel sauce- Spr
  • Crushed nuts (like pecans or almonds)

Step-by-Step Directions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
  3. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. Alternatively, you can grease the tin if you prefer to skip the liners.
  4. Press about a tablespoon of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup, creating a solid base. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
  5. Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. This prevents overmixing, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
  4. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth. This adds depth and a lovely tang to the filling.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crusts, filling each muffin cup about 3/4 full
  2. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly. They will firm up as they cool.
  3. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Chill

  1. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor) before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

  1. When ready to serve, you can top your cheesecake bites with your choice of toppings. Fresh fruit, chocolate drizzle, or a sprinkle of nuts can them to the next level.
  2. For a fun addition, you can serve them on a platter with various toppings on the side, allowing guests to customize their bites.

Storage

  1. Refrigeration: cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  2. Freezing: To freeze, place the bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Creative Variations on the Basic Recipe

  1. Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bites: Mix in 1/2 of mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling before baking for a rich chocolatey twist.
  2. Fruit Swirl Bites: Before baking, drop spoonfuls of fruit preserves (like raspberry or blueberry) into the filling and swirl gently with a toothpick for a marbled effect.
  3. Pumpkin Spice Bites: 1/2 cup of cream cheese with canned pumpkin and add 1 tsp of pumpkin spice for a seasonal favorite.
  4. Lemon Zest Bites: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp of lemon zest into the filling for a refreshing citrus cheesecake.
  5. Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bites: Mix in 1/2 cup of peanut butter into the filling for a nutty, decadent flavor. Top with crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! They taste even better after chilling in the fridge. You can prepare them a day in advance.

Q: What can I substitute for cream cheese?

A: You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a lighter version or have dietary restrictions.

Q: How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bites?

A: Avoid overmixing the batter and make sure to bake them at a lower temperature. A water bath can also help maintain moisture while baking.

Q: Can I use regular-sized muffin tins instead of mini?

A: Yes! Just adjust the baking time. Regular-sized muffin tins will take longer—around 25-30 minutes. Make sure the centers still jiggle slightly when you take them out.

Q: How do I know when they are done?

A: They should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. They will continue to set as they cool.

: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store them in an container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

Cheesecake bites are a versatile, delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you customize them with different flavors or serve them with a variety of toppings, they’re sure to please both novices and experienced bakers alike. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion—from festive gatherings to quiet evenings at home. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making these scrumptious cheesecake bites! They’re a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds.