Description
These Mini Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are delightful individual desserts featuring a creamy cheesecake base with a sweet strawberry swirl, topped with a crunchy mixture of freeze-dried strawberries and crushed golden Oreos. Perfect for parties or anytime you crave a delicious bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup strawberry preserves
Topping
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1/2 cup golden Oreo cookies, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a mini muffin pan with paper liners. In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of this mixture into each liner and firmly press down to form the crust base.
- Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and sour cream, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the cheesecake batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling each about three-quarters full. Add a small dollop of strawberry preserves on top of each and gently swirl it into the batter using a toothpick for a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecakes: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 2 hours to ensure they set properly and develop the perfect creamy texture.
- Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a small bowl, combine crushed freeze-dried strawberries and crushed golden Oreos with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter until evenly coated.
- Add the Topping and Serve: Once chilled, spoon the strawberry crunch topping onto each mini cheesecake bite just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a mini cookie scoop to portion the batter evenly for uniform-sized cheesecake bites.
- The strawberry crunch topping can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container to save time.
- For a smoother swirl effect, warm the strawberry preserves slightly before adding it to the batter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
