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Cheesecake bites

Cheesecake bites

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  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
  • Chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, or whipped cream
  • Fruit preserves or jam
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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and pinch of salt. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each muffin tin cup. Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a flat, compact crust. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-mixed.
  2. Add the sugar and vanilla extract and continue to mix until well combined.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. If using sour cream, add it now and mix until smooth.
  4. Pour the cheesecake filling into each muffin tin cup, filling them almost to the top.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bites

  1. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the cheesecake bites for 12-15 minutes. The center should be slightly set but still jiggle a little when shaken.
  2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake bites cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the tin and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow them to fully set.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

  1. Once the cheesecake bites are chilled and firm, top each one with a small dollop of your favorite topping. Fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate ganache, or a spoonful of fruit preserves are all excellent choices.
  2. You can also top them with a bit of whipped cream or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Serve the cheesecake bites cold, either directly from the fridge or slightly chilled. These little delights are perfect for sharing, but you’ll probably want to keep a few for yourself!

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bites:

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Be sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing. This helps create a smooth and creamy filling with no lumps.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Eggs: When adding the eggs, make sure you don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause cracks in the cheesecakes or create a less smooth texture.
  3. Chill Properly: Allow the cheesecake bites to chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This helps them firm up and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  4. Use a Mini Muffin Tin: A mini muffin tin is the perfect size for making cheesecake bites. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular muffin tin, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
  5. Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Whether you prefer chocolate, fruit, or a drizzle of caramel, the possibilities are endless.

Variations to Try:

  • Chocolate Cheesecake Bites: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
  • Fruit Swirl Cheesecake Bites: Add a fruit puree (like strawberry or blueberry) to the cheesecake mixture and swirl it through before baking.
  • No-Bake Cheesecake Bites: Skip the oven entirely! Prepare the crust and filling, and chill them in the fridge instead of baking for an easy no-bake version.

Why Cheesecake Bites Are So Great:

  1. Portion-Controlled: Cheesecake bites are an easy way to indulge in a rich dessert without overindulging. Their small size makes them perfect for controlled portion sizes, so you can enjoy the flavor without going overboard.
  2. Great for Meal Prep: Cheesecake bites store wonderfully in the fridge for several days and even freeze well for longer storage. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.
  3. Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a casual gathering, cheesecake bites are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. They’re simple yet sophisticated and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Conclusion:

Cheesecake bites are the perfect blend of creamy, tangy goodness in a fun, bite-sized treat. With their irresistible flavors and endless topping possibilities, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re preparing for a party or craving a small indulgence, these mini cheesecakes are just what you need. Try making a batch today and watch them disappear in no time!