Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bites 🍓

Introduction

These Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bites have quickly become a family favorite in my household! The delightful combination of creamy cheesecake with a fruity berry swirl makes for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat after dinner, these little bites always impress. My kids love how fun and colorful they are, and I appreciate how easy they are to make. Plus, they’re a great way to incorporate some fresh berries into our dessert. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp melted unsalted butter

For the Cheesecake:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Berry Swirl:

• 1/2 cup mixed berry puree (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 2 tbsp sugar

Instructions

Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to make removal easier.

Make the Crust

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
4. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner, pressing down firmly to form a solid crust.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, then remove and allow to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

6. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup of sugar together until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
8. Incorporate the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until the batter is silky and smooth.

Create the Berry Swirl

9. In a separate bowl, combine the mixed berry puree and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
10. Drop small spoonfuls of the berry mixture onto each cheesecake bite. Use a toothpick or a skewer to create beautiful swirls.

Bake the Cheesecake Bites

11. Pour the cheesecake batter over each crust, filling the liners about 3/4 full.
12. Gently swirl the berry mixture into each bite using your toothpick.
13. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the centers are set and slightly firm to the touch.

Cool & Chill

14. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bites to cool completely at room temperature.
15. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow them to firm up and enhance the flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 bites
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 105mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)

How to Serve

• Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.
• Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for an extra pop of color.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce or a berry coulis for added sweetness.
• Enjoy as a delightful dessert for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Consider pairing with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother batter.
2. Berry Variety: Feel free to use your favorite berries or whatever is in season; fresh or frozen works well.
3. Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined to prevent over-aeration, which can lead to cracks.
4. Use a Water Bath: For a creamier texture, consider baking the cheesecake bites in a water bath.
5. Cool Gradually: Let the bites cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 10 minutes after baking to help prevent cracking.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cheesecake Bites: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Nut Crust: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts for a gluten-free option.
• Fruit Variations: Experiment with different purees like mango or peach for unique flavors.
• Mini Cheesecake Bars: Instead of muffin tins, use a square baking dish and cut into bars after cooling.
• Lemon Swirl: Replace berry puree with lemon curd for a zesty alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these bites at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat during afternoon tea.
• They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.
• Consider presenting them on a dessert platter with an assortment of other bite-sized treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These cheesecake bites freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

• Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture.

1. How do I make mixed berry puree?

• Blend equal parts of fresh or frozen berries until smooth, then strain to remove seeds if desired.

1. What if I don’t have muffin liners?

• You can grease the muffin tin directly, but liners help with easy removal.

1. Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time?

• Absolutely! They can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge.

1. How do I know when they are done?

• The edges will be set, and the centers should slightly jiggle. They will firm up as they cool.

1. Can I use different kinds of sugar?

• Yes, you can substitute with coconut sugar or any sweetener of your choice.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

1. Can I use a different crust?

• Yes! Try using crushed Oreos or almond flour for a different flavor profile.

1. What’s the best way to serve these?

• They are best served chilled and can be garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Conclusion

These Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bites are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a feast for the eyes. Their vibrant colors and creamy texture make them a standout dessert at any gathering. Whether enjoyed at a celebration or as an everyday indulgence, they’re sure to delight everyone. I hope you give this recipe a try and watch them disappear from the platter! Enjoy your baking!

Print