Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and resembles a dough-like consistency.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the cheesecake balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- While the bites are freezing, melt the white chocolate or almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Once firm, dip each cheesecake ball into the melted white chocolate until fully coated, then return them to the baking sheet.
- While the coating is still wet, dip half of the bites into the melted red candy melts and the other half into the green candy melts.
- Add holiday sprinkles on top of the bites as desired for that festive touch.
- Refrigerate the bites until the chocolate is set and the bites are firm before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Bites are a festive and versatile treat! Serve them on a beautiful platter adorned with fresh holiday greens for a cheerful presentation. Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or alongside your favorite holiday cookies for a delightful dessert buffet. Don’t forget to include them in gift baskets for friends and family; they make a perfect homemade gift!
How to store
To keep your cheesecake bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to make them ahead of time, these treats freeze beautifully. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. Always ensure to label your storage container for easy identification!
Helpful cooking tips
- For a smoother chocolate coating, ensure that your white chocolate or almond bark is completely melted and mixed well before dipping.
- If you want to add a little extra flavor to your bites, consider mixing in lemon zest or almond extract into the cheesecake mixture to elevate the taste.
- Work quickly when dipping, as the chocolate can start to set if left too long in the bowl.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with these cheesecake bites! Instead of red and green candy melts, you can opt for gold and silver for a stunning New Year’s Eve treat. You can also incorporate crushed peppermint candies into the chocolate coating for a refreshing twist or add nut butters for a richer flavor profile.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare these cheesecake bites?
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, plus a freezing time of 30 minutes.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for coating?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate or even milk chocolate. Just ensure they’re melted to a smooth consistency.
What can I do if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with finely crushed cookies or even vanilla wafer crumbs for a different flavor.
How long can I store these cheesecake bites?
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to store them properly!
