These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are a tasty treat! They have creamy cheesecake and a crunchy strawberry topping that makes each bite super yummy.
They’re perfect for a quick dessert or just when you want something sweet. I love how easy they are to make – just mix, chill, and enjoy! Who could resist? 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base for your cheesecake bites. You can use store-bought crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself. For a twist, consider using digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: The backbone of the cheesecake filling. You can swap it for Neufchâtel for a lower-fat option. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cream cheese alternatives that offer a similar texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the cheesecake its light and fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with a whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream available in stores.
Fresh Strawberries: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season or you want a different taste, try raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches! Just adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the filling and helps keep it smooth. If you want a healthier alternative, you could use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, keeping in mind it may affect the texture slightly.
How Do You Whip Heavy Cream to Its Perfect Consistency?
Whipping heavy cream can be tricky, but with a few steps, you’ll get it right! Here’s how to achieve those stiff peaks:
- Always start with a chilled bowl and beaters; this helps the cream whip faster.
- Pour the heavy cream into the bowl. Begin beating on low to medium speed to avoid splatters.
- Once bubbles begin to form, gradually increase the speed.
- Watch closely as the cream thickens. Look for soft peaks first, then continue until stiff peaks form.
- Be careful not to over-whip; it can turn into butter if whipped too long!
With these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect whipped cream to light up your cheesecake bites!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped small
For The Toppings:
- 1/4 cup strawberry sauce or syrup (for drizzle)
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or streusel crumble (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and requires at least 3-4 hours to freeze. You’ll create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, so let’s dive right in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until everything is well combined. Next, take about 1 teaspoon of this mixture and press it into the bottom of silicone mini muffin molds or a lined mini muffin pan. Make sure it’s packed down well to form a nice crust. Once done, pop the crusts in the freezer while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and keep beating until the mixture is creamy and free of lumps. This will be the base of your cheesecake filling.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a separate chilled bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Start whipping it on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift your mixer, the cream should hold its shape and not fall. Be careful not to overbeat; you want it light and fluffy!
4. Fold Everything Together:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and a gentle hand to combine the two mixtures until fully incorporated and smooth. Then, gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, blending them in well.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake Bites:
Remove your crusts from the freezer. Now, spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture over each crust, filling the molds nearly to the top. This will create delightful little bites of cheesecake overflowing with strawberry goodness.
6. Freeze the Cheesecake Bites:
Place the filled molds back in the freezer and let them freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until they are firm enough to hold their shape.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheesecake bites are firm, gently remove them from the molds and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle strawberry sauce over each cheesecake bite for that extra touch of sweetness. Finally, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or streusel crumble on top for a delightful crunchy finish. Serve them immediately or keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy!
And there you have it—delicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Fruit in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute them with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if the fruit is particularly tart.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheesecake Bites?
Store any leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Can I Make These Cheesecake Bites Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream. This way, you’ll still get a creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I Use Store-Bought Graham Cracker Crumbs?
Definitely! Store-bought graham cracker crumbs can save time and effort. If you want a unique flavor, consider using chocolate or honey-flavored crumbs instead!
