These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are sweet little treats that everyone loves! With crunchy layers and creamy cheesecake, they’re a fun snack or dessert.
I can’t resist grabbing a few at a time—they just pop in your mouth! Plus, they’re super easy to make, so I whip them up for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the crunchy base. If you’re out of graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies can work as great substitutes for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Soften it well for a smooth filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese is a lower-fat alternative that will still taste creamy.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh is best for pureeing, but frozen strawberries (thawed) can be used if you want it year-round. Just make sure to drain any excess water after thawing!
Heavy Cream: This gives the cheesecake its lightness. If you need a non-dairy option, coconut cream can be whipped and used as a substitute for a different taste profile.
Strawberry Jam: This is optional and adds a nice glaze to finish. If you’re avoiding sugar, you can skip it, or use a no-sugar-added jam.
How Do I Ensure My Cheesecake Bites Are Light and Fluffy?
The secret here is in how you mix the ingredients together. When whipping the cream, aim for stiff peaks—this means it should hold its shape. Be gentle when folding in the whipped cream with the cream cheese.
- Using a rubber spatula, fold from the bottom up to keep as much air in as possible.
- Do this until just combined; it’s okay if you see some streaks of cream cheese.
This will help maintain the light, fluffy texture that makes these cheesecake bites so delightful!
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
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam (optional, for extra glaze)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or biscuit crumbs
- 2 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
How Long Will This Take?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and then at least 2-3 hours to chill in the fridge. The wait is worth it for these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and looks crumbly. This will be your crust base!
2. Form the Crust:
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a mini muffin tin or silicone mold. Make sure to pack it down well so it holds together. Place the tin in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling—this helps it set up nicely.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla extract, beating until everything is blended together.
4. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This creates the light and fluffy texture in your cheesecake filling!
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want to keep it airy and fluffy.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake Bites:
Spoon about half of the cheesecake mixture into the crusts you set aside in the fridge. Then, add a small layer of pureed strawberries on top of the cheesecake filling. Finally, cover with the remaining cheesecake filling to the top of each mold.
7. Chill:
Refrigerate the bites for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are firm enough to hold their shape.
8. Remove from Molds:
Once the cheesecake bites have set, gently remove them from the molds. If using a mini muffin tin, you might need to run a knife around the edges to help them pop out.
9. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you’re using strawberry jam, warm it slightly in the microwave and brush or drop a little on top of each cheesecake bite. Then, sprinkle the tops with crushed graham crackers for that crunchy texture.
10. Drizzle with Chocolate:
Finally, drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake bites for a deliciously rich finish.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
These cheesecake bites are best served chilled. Enjoy your delightful strawberry crunch cheesecake bites!
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Cheesecake Bites?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just ensure they are pureed or diced small for even layering in the cheesecake.
Can I Make These Cheesecake Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap out the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie alternative. You can also use crushed nuts for a different flavor and texture.
How Long Do These Cheesecake Bites Last in the Fridge?
These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to keep them cooled for the best texture!
Can I Freeze These Cheesecake Bites?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just wrap each bite individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best quality.