Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites Recipe

Introduction

There’s something truly delightful about bite-sized desserts, especially when they combine the tangy richness of cream cheese with the sweet burst of fresh raspberries. One of my family’s all-time favorites is the Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites. Every time I prepare these treats, the excitement in the kitchen is palpable. The kids love helping out, especially when it comes to adding the raspberry jam and fresh berries on top. Watching them swirl the jam into the creamy filling brings a sense of joy that makes baking together a cherished activity. These little bites are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack at home. They always disappear quickly, and the compliments keep coming!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Raspberry Topping:

• 1/4 cup raspberry jam or preserves
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (optional for added texture)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin or a regular muffin tin with liners, or lightly grease with cooking spray.
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Form the Crusts:
   Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each muffin cup and press down firmly to create a crust. Set aside.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

4. Beat the Cream Cheese:
   In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture, and continue mixing until fully combined and creamy.

Assemble the Bites:

6. Fill the Muffin Cups:
   Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Add Raspberry Jam:
   Add a small dollop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of raspberry jam on top of each cream cheese-filled bite. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the jam into the cream cheese filling. Optionally, place a fresh raspberry in the center of each bite for added texture and flavor.

Bake:

8. Bake in the Oven:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes for mini bites or 20-22 minutes for regular-sized bites, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed.
9. Cool:
   Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chill and Serve:

10. Refrigerate:
    Once cooled, refrigerate the raspberry cream cheese bites for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up.
11. Serve Chilled:
    Serve chilled and enjoy these creamy, tangy, and sweet treats!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 12 bites
• Calories per serving: About 120 kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-22 minutes

How to Serve

• Chilled: Serve these bites chilled for the best texture and flavor.
• With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Fresh Berries: Garnish with additional fresh raspberries on the side.
• Drizzle: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent touch.
• On a Dessert Platter: Arrange on a beautiful platter for parties or gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened and at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
2. Graham Cracker Variations: Experiment with different types of graham crackers, such as cinnamon or chocolate-flavored, for a unique crust.
3. Jam Options: Feel free to substitute raspberry jam with other fruit jams, such as strawberry or blueberry, to create different flavor profiles.
4. Make Ahead: These bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for party prep.
5. Texture: If you prefer a chunkier texture, add more fresh raspberries to the cream cheese filling.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cream Cheese Filling: Mix cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling for a chocolate twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty flavor.
• Mixed Berry Filling: Use a combination of jams or fresh berries for a mixed berry version.
• Nut Crust: Incorporate crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) into the crust for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Treat: Serve these bites as part of a brunch spread alongside coffee and other pastries.
• Dessert Table: Include them on dessert tables at parties or celebrations.
• Picnic Goodies: Pack them for picnics; they travel well and are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for holiday gatherings, adding a splash of color and flavor to the table.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These bites can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Glaze and Topping: If you plan to freeze, consider adding the glaze and fresh toppings just before serving for the best presentation.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

• Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

1. What if I don’t have fresh raspberries?

• You can skip the fresh raspberries and just use the raspberry jam or preserves.

1. How do I know when the bites are done?

• The edges should be set and the centers slightly puffed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

1. Can I make these bites vegan?

• Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

1. How do I prevent the crust from getting too hard?

• Make sure not to overbake the bites and use the right amount of butter in the crust.

1. Can I use another type of cookie for the crust?

• Yes, crushed cookies like Oreos or shortbread can be used for a different flavor.

1. What can I use instead of raspberry jam?

• Any fruit jam or even chocolate spread can be used as a topping.

1. How should I serve these bites?

• They can be served chilled, and you can garnish them with whipped cream or extra fruit.

1. What should I do if my bites stick to the muffin tin?

• Make sure to grease the tin well or use cupcake liners for easier removal.

1. How can I adjust the sweetness?
   • You can reduce the sugar in the filling or glaze to suit your taste.

Conclusion

The Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are a delightful dessert that combines rich cream cheese filling with the sweetness of raspberry jam, all nestled in a crumbly graham cracker crust. These bites are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Easy to make and irresistible to eat, these sweet bites are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious results of your baking adventure! Happy baking!

Print