Deliciously Divine Cheesecake Bites Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 teaspoons shortening

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished cheesecake out.
In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Using the foil overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and cut into bite-sized squares.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake bites.
Let the chocolate set before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - Used for mixing the cream cheese mixture.
9x13-inch baking pan - Used to bake the cheesecake.
Foil - Used to line the baking pan and provide easy removal of the cheesecake.
Spatula - Used to smooth the cream cheese mixture and remove the cheesecake from the pan.
Wire rack - Used to cool the cheesecake.
Microwave-safe bowl - Used to melt the chocolate chips and shortening for drizzling.
Knife - Used to cut the cheesecake into bite-sized squares.

Recipe variations

Replace the graham cracker crust with a chocolate cookie crust.
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a hint of citrus flavor.
Top the cheesecake bites with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, on top of the melted chocolate drizzle.
Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate cheesecake variation.
Make a fruity twist by adding a layer of sliced strawberries or blueberries between the crust and cream cheese filling.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust.
Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for the drizzle.
Add a tablespoon of flavored liqueur, such as Bailey's Irish Cream or Amaretto, to the cream cheese mixture for an adult version.
Make mini cheesecake bites by using a mini muffin tin and reducing the baking time.

Recipe overview

Indulge your sweet tooth with these delectable Cheesecake Bites. Crisp and buttery graham cracker crust sits beneath a layer of smooth, creamy cheesecake in these bite-sized desserts. Topped with a drizzle of rich, melted chocolate, they're the perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe makes it easy to create your own cheesecake bites at home, with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The steps are simple and straightforward, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Expect to spend about 15 minutes preparing the cheesecake, then another 30-35 minutes of baking time. Cooling and refrigeration are crucial for achieving the perfect texture, so make sure to account for that when planning. Whether you're serving these at a party or enjoying them as a sweet after-dinner treat, these cheesecake bites are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of cracker for the crust? Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with other types of cracker crumbs like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? While unsalted butter is recommended for better control over the saltiness of the recipe, you can use salted butter if that's what you have on hand. Just reduce or omit any additional salt called for in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the drizzle? Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for the drizzle, based on your preference.
Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cheesecake bites ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these cheesecake bites? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bites for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating the layers with parchment paper.
Can I add toppings to the cheesecake bites? Absolutely! You can top the cheesecake bites with fresh berries, crushed cookies, or even a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix together the cream cheese filling.
Electric Mixer - A handheld or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth.
9x13-inch Baking Pan - A rectangular baking pan to bake the cheesecake in.
Foil - To line the baking pan, making it easier to lift the cheesecake out.
Spatula - A tool to smooth the cream cheese mixture and to lift the baked cheesecake out of the pan.
Wire Rack - A cooling rack to allow the cheesecake to cool properly.
Microwave-Safe Bowl - A bowl to melt the chocolate chips and shortening for drizzling.
Spoon or Whisk - To stir the melted chocolate until smooth.
Knife - To cut the chilled cheesecake into bite-sized squares.

Origin stories

Cheesecake has a surprisingly long history, dating all the way back to ancient Greece. In fact, it was served to athletes at the first Olympic games, which took place in 776 B.C. The original recipe involved simple ingredients: cheese, wheat, and honey formed into a cake. Over the centuries, the recipe evolved as it traveled through Europe and eventually to America, where cream cheese was introduced to the mix. The concept of cheesecake bites, bite-sized morsels of this traditional dessert, is a relatively new innovation. It's a testament to our modern love for convenience and portion control - all while enjoying the rich, creamy goodness of this ancient dessert.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.