Description
These Crunch Cheesecake Bites are a delightful no-fuss dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling and finished with a crunchy strawberry topping. Perfectly chilled and cut into bite-sized squares, they offer a refreshing and textured treat that’s great for parties or anytime craving a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry crunch topping (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing it to set. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely to ensure a firm base for the cheesecake filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping and diced fresh strawberries, taking care not to deflate the whipped topping to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust in the baking dish. Once evenly spread, sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the surface to add texture and flavor.
- Chill the cheesecake: Cover the assembled cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step lets the flavors meld and the cheesecake firm up for easier slicing.
- Cut and serve: After chilling, lift the cheesecake out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 16 bite-sized squares. Serve chilled for a refreshing and delicious dessert.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- For homemade strawberry crunch topping, consider crushed freeze-dried strawberries mixed with crushed graham crackers and a bit of sugar.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture for the best results.
- Use parchment paper to line your baking dish for easy removal.
- These bites are best served cold and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
