Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites
Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the bright flavor of strawberries. These bite-sized desserts are easy to make and perfect for gatherings, parties, or just to indulge yourself!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it is simple and quick to prepare. The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a rich flavor that everyone will love. Plus, the crunchy topping adds a fun texture. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a casual dessert, these mini cheesecakes will impress your family and friends!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a muffin tin with liners or grease it.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each muffin cup, filling about 3/4 full. Tap the pan to remove air bubbles and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until just set (they will jiggle slightly). Cool to room temperature then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, melted butter, and sugar for the topping.
- Once cheesecakes are cooled, sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping on each.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle glaze over each cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve chilled.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites
Serve these mini cheesecakes chilled for the best flavor and texture. They make a wonderful dessert option for any gathering. You can arrange them on a pretty platter and add some fresh strawberries for decoration.
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites
Store the mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead of time, feel free to prepare them a day or two before your event.
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Mini Cheesecake Bites
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth mixture.
- Try not to overmix the cheesecake batter to avoid incorporating too much air, which can create cracks.
- For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top.
Variation
You can replace freeze-dried strawberries with other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries for different flavors. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give it a unique twist!
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but they will not provide the same crunchy texture. You might want to reduce the amount of fresh strawberries used in the topping since they have more moisture.
How long do these mini cheesecakes last in the fridge?
These cheesecake bites will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the mini cheesecakes?
Yes, you can freeze the mini cheesecakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
