Description
Welcome to a delicious new way to enjoy cheesecake with a strawberry twist—Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites! Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a fan of strawberry-flavored desserts, this recipe is going to wow your taste buds. These bite-sized treats combine the creaminess of traditional cheesecake with the sweet crunch of strawberries and golden cookies. They’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a simple snack to treat yourself. Let’s dive into this Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites recipe and make your dessert dreams come true!
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened – Ensures the cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a subtle vanilla note.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to balance the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and gives the cheesecake its signature texture.
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree or strawberry jam – Infuses the cheesecake with a delightful strawberry flavor.
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or golden Oreos – Provides a sturdy base with a sweet crunch.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps bind the crust together.
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafer cookies – Adds crunch and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed – Gives the topping its vibrant color and strawberry flavor.
- 3 tbsp melted butter – Helps the topping adhere to the cheesecake bites.
Optional for Dipping:
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate or candy melts, melted – Adds an extra layer of indulgence to the cheesecake bites.
Optional Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
- Replace white chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a mini muffin tin or an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham crackers or golden Oreos with 1/4 cup melted butter. Stir until well combined.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the mini muffin cups or the baking pan to form a crust layer. Set aside while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This step is key to avoiding lumps in your cheesecake.
- Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup strawberry puree or jam. Mix until everything is fully combined and the filling is smooth.
- Pour the Cheesecake Mixture: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust. If you’re using a mini muffin tin, fill each cup about 3/4 full. For an 8×8-inch pan, spread the mixture evenly across the crust.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 20-25 minutes for mini bites, or 35-40 minutes for a larger pan, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup crushed golden Oreos, 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed, and 3 tbsp melted butter. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the Bites: Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove the bites from the muffin tin or cut the larger cheesecake into bite-sized squares. Roll or sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping over each bite, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 4 (Optional): Dip in White Chocolate
- Melt the White Chocolate: Melt 1 1/2 cups of white chocolate or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip the Cheesecake Bites: Dip each cheesecake bite into the melted white chocolate and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the chocolate set in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This will help you achieve a smoother filling and avoid lumps.
- Crush the cookies finely: For the crust and topping, make sure the cookies are finely crushed so they create a consistent layer.
- Refrigerate fully: Don’t rush the chilling process! For the best texture and flavor, make sure to refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Use fresh strawberry puree: If possible, make your own strawberry puree from fresh strawberries. This enhances the flavor and gives a natural sweetness to the filling.