There’s something about the smell of freshly baked cheesecake that takes me right back to my childhood kitchen in Chicago. My babcia, with her floral apron and warm smile, would always have a sweet treat ready for us kids after school. One of her specialties was a cherry chip cheesecake that was so irresistible, it would disappear within minutes. Inspired by her classic recipe, I’ve created these delightful cherry chip cheesecake bites. They’re a modern twist on a family favorite, perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring as a special treat just for yourself.
These cherry chip cheesecake bites are not only a nod to my Polish roots but also a testament to the comforting flavors that have always been a staple in our family. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a creamy, cherry-studded filling, they capture the essence of my childhood memories while adding a playful, bite-sized twist. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together, and I promise you’ll fall in love with these little bites of joy just like my family has.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cherry chip cheesecake bites are the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy, with a burst of cherry flavor in every bite. They are easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these bites are sure to impress. Plus, they’re naturally portion-controlled, making them a guilt-free indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cherry chips
- 1/4 cup cherry preserves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the cherry chips, being careful not to overmix.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
- Dollop a small amount of cherry preserves on top of each cheesecake and use a toothpick to swirl it into the batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set. Allow to cool completely before removing from the tin.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help avoid any lumps in your batter. Additionally, be gentle when folding in the cherry chips to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Cooking Tools
When I make these cherry chip cheesecake bites, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set, which is perfect for mixing the batter without scratching my bowls. And for chopping any additional toppings, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is a lifesaver in my kitchen.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up, try using chocolate chips instead of cherry chips for a decadent twist. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also add a hint of almond extract for a different flavor profile that complements the cherries beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bites are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, top each bite with a fresh cherry. Serve them chilled with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a truly indulgent experience.
FAQs
Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bites can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What if I don’t have mini muffin tins?
You can use a regular muffin tin and adjust the baking time slightly, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Final Thoughts
Making these cherry chip cheesecake bites has become a cherished tradition in our home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. They’re a sweet reminder of my babcia’s love and the simple joys of sharing good food with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try them and share your thoughts!
👉 I hope you loved making these cherry chip cheesecake bites—they’re like little bites of happiness that bring a smile to anyone who tries them. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake, or Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Cherry Chip Cheesecake Bites: 5 Irresistible Recipes
Delicious bite-sized cheesecakes with a cherry chip twist, perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into muffin liners.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and sour cream.
- Fold in cherry chips gently.
- Spoon mixture into liners, swirl cherry preserves on top.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely before removing.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.