Description
Luscious berry swirl cheesecake bites blend creamy indulgence with fruity charm. Delicate graham cracker crusts cradle silky cheesecake, promising a perfect balance of tangy sweetness that will delight dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60 g) berry puree (strawberry, raspberry, or mixed berries)
Sweeteners:
- ⅓ cup (65 g) sugar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Other Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Craft a graham cracker foundation by blending crumbs with melted butter and sugar until perfectly crumbly.
- Layer paper liners in a mini muffin tin and distribute the crust mixture evenly, pressing firmly to create a solid base.
- Toast the crust in a 325F oven for approximately 5 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- Whip cream cheese and sour cream until silky smooth using an electric mixer.
- Gradually incorporate sugar into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a uniform consistency.
- Gently fold in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, mixing until the batter becomes luxuriously creamy.
- Construct a vibrant berry compote by simmering mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Cook the berry mixture until it transforms into a glossy, slightly thickened sauce, then remove from heat and let cool.
- Fill each muffin cavity with cheesecake batter, leaving a small margin at the top.
- Dollop berry compote across the surface of each cheesecake bite.
- Create artistic swirls by delicately dragging a toothpick through the berry and cheesecake layers.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until the centers are just set but retain a gentle wobble.
- Allow cheesecake bites to rest in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar, promoting even cooling.
- Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours to achieve optimal texture and flavor melding.
- Optionally garnish with fresh berries before serving for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and easier blending with other ingredients.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest texture that prevents dense or dry cheesecake bites.
- Create a water bath by placing the muffin tin in a larger pan with hot water to prevent cracking and promote even baking of delicate cheesecake.
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg