Description
Delight in these Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bites, a perfect bite-sized dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant swirl of berry jam. These mini cheesecakes are easy to make, baked to perfection, and ideal for parties or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Swirl and Garnish
- 1/4 cup berry jam or puree (strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry)
- Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press about 1 teaspoon of this mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crusts for 5 minutes to set them. Once done, remove from the oven and set the muffin tin aside while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and sour cream, mixing thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Bites: Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly over the baked crusts, filling each muffin cup about 3/4 full to allow space for the berry swirl.
- Create the Berry Swirl: Add a small drop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of berry jam or puree on top of each filled cup. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the jam through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecakes: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the centers are just set and slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake bites to cool in the pan. Then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh berries if desired before serving these delightful mini cheesecake bites.
Notes
- Use seedless jam or puree for the smoothest swirl and texture.
- These cheesecake bites freeze well; thaw them in the fridge before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.