Description
These Mini Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are delightful no-bake treats featuring a creamy strawberry-infused cheesecake filling on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a crunchy mixture of freeze-dried strawberries and golden cookie crumbs. Perfect for parties or a sweet snack, they require no baking and chill to a luscious, refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or puree
- 1/2 cup whipped cream or topping
Topping
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1 cup golden sandwich cookies, crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Strawberry slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a mini muffin pan with paper liners to ensure easy removal and clean presentation of the cheesecake bites.
- Create the crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs with 4 tablespoons of melted butter, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of each muffin liner to form firm crust bases.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the strawberry jam or puree, then gently fold in the whipped cream to create a light, fluffy texture.
- Assemble the cheesecake bites: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over each crumb crust in the muffin liners, smoothing the tops to ensure an attractive finish.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill the cheesecake bites for at least 3 hours, allowing them to firm up properly.
- Prepare and add the topping: Mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed golden sandwich cookies, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this crunchy topping generously over each set cheesecake bite.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, add fresh strawberry slices on top for garnish. Serve chilled for a refreshing bite-sized dessert experience.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can add a little powdered sugar to the freeze-dried strawberry and cookie crumble mixture.
- These cheesecake bites keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but the topping is best added just before serving to retain crispness.
- Use paper liners to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bites without breaking.
- For a different flavor twist, substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or blueberry preserves.
