Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites
Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites are a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake. They combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet taste of strawberries and the crunchy texture of shortcake. These bites are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is fantastic because it’s simple and fun to make. Not only is it easy to prepare, but you also get to enjoy different flavors and textures in one bite. Each cheesecake bite has a creamy filling, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy topping, making them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, so they’re perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups strawberry shortcake crumbs (or crushed shortbread cookies)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp strawberry extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add melted butter and vanilla. Mix well, then press into a greased mini muffin pan. Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden and let cool.
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Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla and sour cream, then add eggs one at a time. Fill the crusts with cheesecake mixture and bake for 15-18 minutes until set. Chill for 2 hours or overnight.
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Mix diced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
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Combine shortcake crumbs with melted butter, powdered sugar, and optional strawberry extract in a bowl until crumbly.
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Top each cheesecake with strawberries and sprinkle with the strawberry crunch topping. Chill for 15-20 minutes.
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Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites
These cheesecake bites are best served cold. You can place them on a beautiful platter for a nice presentation. They make a great dessert for gatherings, and everyone will love the little bite-sized pieces!
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites
You can store cheesecake bites in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Shortcake Cheesecake Bites
- Use room temperature cream cheese to make mixing easier.
- Don’t overbake the cheesecakes; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Add more strawberries as a topping if you love the fruity flavor.
Variation
You can switch up the flavor by using different fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Additionally, you can substitute traditional shortcake crumbs with other types of cookies to create your unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them a day or two ahead and store them in the fridge.
2. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
You can use crushed cookies or biscuit crumbs as a substitute for graham crackers.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
