Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites Recipe

These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites combine the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake with a sweet, strawberry-infused crunch topping. Each bite-sized cheesecake is topped with a layer of crushed golden Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter for an irresistible texture and flavor. Optional white chocolate dipping takes these treats to the next level. They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a fun dessert treat.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s go over each component of this delicious dessert and how they come together to create the perfect bite-sized cheesecake.

Cheesecake Filling

• Cream Cheese: The base of any cheesecake, cream cheese makes it rich and creamy. Use 16 oz of softened cream cheese for the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the tanginess of the cream cheese. Use ½ cup.
• Vanilla Extract: Just 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and gives a warm, sweet note.
• Sour Cream: Adding ½ cup of sour cream gives the cheesecake a slightly tangy flavor and a lighter, silkier texture.
• Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the filling and give it structure.
• Strawberry Puree or Jam: Use ½ cup of strawberry puree or jam for a fruity layer that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

Crust

• Crushed Graham Crackers or Golden Oreos: For the crust, you’ll need 1½ cups of crushed graham crackers or golden Oreos. Both options offer a sweet, crumbly base, with Oreos adding a hint of vanilla flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter to bind the crust and create a rich, buttery layer.

Strawberry Crunch Topping

• Crushed Golden Oreos or Vanilla Wafers: These cookies add texture and a subtle vanilla flavor. Use 1 cup of crushed cookies.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Crush ½ cup of freeze-dried strawberries to add a burst of strawberry flavor and a vibrant color.
• Melted Butter: Use 3 tablespoons of melted butter to help the topping stick to the cheesecake bites.

Optional Dipping

• White Chocolate or Candy Melts: For added sweetness and indulgence, dip the cheesecake bites in 1½ cups of melted white chocolate or candy melts.

Preparing the Crust

The crust is a crucial component, as it provides a firm base for the cheesecake bites. Here’s how to prepare it.

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even baking.
2. Line a mini muffin tin or an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bites once they’re chilled.

Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers or golden Oreos with the melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the mini muffin cups or the baking pan, creating an even layer. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

The cheesecake filling is smooth, creamy, and full of flavor. Follow these steps for the perfect consistency.

Beat the Cream Cheese

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. This step is essential to remove any lumps.

Add the Eggs and Sour Cream

1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
2. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree or jam until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and evenly mixed.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, filling each mini muffin cup about ¾ full if using a mini muffin tin. If you’re using an 8×8 pan, pour the filling evenly over the entire crust.
2. Bake the mini cheesecake bites for 20-25 minutes, or 35-40 minutes for a larger pan, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Preparing the Strawberry Crunch Topping

This crunchy, fruity topping adds a beautiful and flavorful contrast to the creamy cheesecake.

Make the Crunch Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed golden Oreos or vanilla wafers, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Set the topping aside while you assemble the cheesecake bites.

Assembling the Cheesecake Bites

Once the cheesecake has set, it’s time to assemble and coat with the strawberry crunch topping.

Coat with Crunch Topping

1. If using a mini muffin tin, carefully remove each cheesecake bite. For an 8×8 pan, cut the cheesecake into bite-sized squares.
2. Roll or sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping over each bite, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere.

(Optional) Dip in White Chocolate

1. For an extra indulgent twist, dip each cheesecake bite halfway into the melted white chocolate or candy melts.
2. Place the dipped bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

Serve

Once the cheesecake bites are ready, serve them on a platter with fresh strawberries or a garnish of mint for an elegant presentation. These bites are ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a fun dessert option for any occasion.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This makes it easier to blend them smoothly, preventing lumps.
• Crush the Cookies Well: For a cohesive topping, make sure the cookies and freeze-dried strawberries are finely crushed. Larger chunks can make the topping difficult to stick.
• Chill for Best Results: For optimal texture and flavor, chill the cheesecake bites for at least 4 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
• Add a Chocolate Drizzle: If you want an elegant touch, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the bites after adding the crunch topping.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try using different flavored jams, such as raspberry or blueberry, for a new twist on these bites. You can also swap the golden Oreos for chocolate cookies for a unique flavor combination.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries will not work as well for the topping because they add moisture, making it difficult for the crumbs to stay crunchy. Stick with freeze-dried strawberries for the best results.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes! These cheesecake bites can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and add the crunch topping just before serving for optimal texture.

Can I freeze the cheesecake bites?

Yes, you can freeze the bites. Freeze them without the topping for best results, and add the topping after they’ve been thawed. To freeze, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I substitute for the graham cracker crust?

Feel free to experiment with other cookies for the crust, such as chocolate wafer cookies, digestive biscuits, or almond flour for a gluten-free option. Each will add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white for dipping?

Absolutely! Dark or milk chocolate can be used for dipping if you prefer a richer chocolate flavor. Just melt the chocolate the same way and dip the bites as directed.

These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are a deliciously fun dessert with the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity flavors. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or a delightful treat to enjoy any time.