Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bites: A Delightful Treat
Who doesn’t love a bite-sized treat packed with creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors? Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick dessert, or simply craving something sweet, these little gems are sure to hit the spot. With a buttery crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and a fruity topping, every bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesecake bites are not only adorable but incredibly easy to make! You’ll appreciate how quickly they come together, and they’re perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a treat at home. The combination of creamy cheesecake and a sweet strawberry topping is a classic that never fails to impress. Plus, they’re conveniently portioned, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mini cupcake pan
- Mini cupcake liners
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
- 2 8oz packages of cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
- Dash or two of lemon zest (optional)
- Mini Nilla Wafers
- 1 can of pie filling of your choice (Strawberry is always a winner)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a mini cupcake pan with mini liners and place a Mini Nilla Wafer in each, mounded side up.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using).
- Use an electric mixer to cream the ingredients together until smooth and free of lumps.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into the cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full. Don’t worry if you overfill slightly; they will puff up and then settle as they cool.
- Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the cheesecake bites to cool completely. You can place them in the refrigerator to help them set.
- Top each cheesecake bite with a spoonful of strawberry pie filling before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
- Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake bites thoroughly before topping with the pie filling for the best texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try different pie fillings like blueberry or cherry for variety.
- Add a touch of cinnamon to the crust for a warm flavor twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values may vary, each bite is approximately:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture and flavor are best with regular cream cheese.
How long do these cheesecake bites last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze these cheesecake bites?
Yes, you can freeze them without the topping for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add the pie filling before serving.
Conclusion
These Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are a delightfully easy and delicious treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, they bring joy with every bite. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you! We’d love to hear your experiences and any creative twists you added.
