Cheesecake Bites Recipe: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Dessert Recipe
These creamy and delicious cheesecake bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, luscious cream cheese filling, they are baked to perfection for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a special indulgence.
- Author: Hannah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 cheesecake bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
The Crust
- 1.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
- 5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
The Filling
- 16 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup Sour Cream
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake bites after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a flat measuring cup.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup granulated sugar for about 2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy.
- Add Additional Filling Ingredients: Mix in the sour cream, pure vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until each yolk is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter smooth and prevent cracking.
- Assemble and Prepare to Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Smooth the top evenly and gently tap the pan on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 30-35 minutes at 325°F (163°C), until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Serve: Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into bite-sized squares with a long sharp knife heated and wiped dry between cuts for clean edges. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Room temperature eggs help create a smooth batter and prevent cracking during baking.
- Using a hot, dry knife and wiping it clean between cuts helps achieve clean edges on cheesecake bites.
- Refrigerating the cheesecake overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- Store leftover cheesecake bites covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keywords: cheesecake bites, no crust cheesecake squares, graham cracker crust dessert, cream cheese dessert, party dessert, easy cheesecake recipe