Imagine a bite-sized dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake, the sweet burst of cherry, and the decadent crunch of chocolate chips - all nestled in a perfect graham cracker crust. These Cherry Chip Cheesecake Bites are not just a dessert; they're a miniature explosion of flavor that will have your guests begging for the recipe! Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a quick sweet treat, or simply want to impress your friends and family, these delightful little bites are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips
- 1 package of mini graham cracker crusts
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes to ensure smooth mixing.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake bites.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
- Gently fold in half of the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Arrange the mini graham cracker crusts on a baking sheet, keeping them closely positioned.
- Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into each mini graham cracker crust, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Top each cheesecake bite with a small spoonful of cherry pie filling, placing it in the center of the cream cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top of each cheesecake bite.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly set and the centers are just barely jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 1 hour to allow them to set completely and develop a rich, creamy texture.
- Before serving, let the cheesecake bites sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature. This prevents lumps and creates a smoother, more luxurious texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and cause cracks in your cheesecake bites.
- Precise Filling: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to evenly distribute the cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker crusts.
- Cherry Placement: Add the cherry pie filling carefully to the center of each bite for a beautiful and balanced presentation.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cheesecake bites to cool completely in the refrigerator. This helps them set and enhances their flavor.
- Make Ahead: These bites can be prepared a day in advance, making them perfect for entertaining.
- Serving Tip: Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving to soften slightly and bring out the full flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
