Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites

Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites are the perfect sweet treat to impress your guests during the holiday season. These little bites pack all the creamy goodness of cheesecake with a festive touch from sugared cranberries. They are fun to make and even more fun to eat!

Why Make This Recipe

These cheesecake bites offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crunchy graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Adding sugared cranberries gives them a festive flair and a pop of color. These treats are great for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a special dessert for your family. Plus, they are bite-sized, making them easy to enjoy!

How to Make Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites

Ingredients

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 1/2 tbsp sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/8 tsp kosher salt
2 large eggs
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar (for syrup)
3/4 cup sugar (for rolling)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Graham Cracker Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into each cupcake liner and press down firmly to form a crust. Set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Scoop about 2 1/2 tablespoons of the filling onto each crust. Bake for 17-22 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden. Cool and then refrigerate for a few hours.
Make Sugared Cranberries: In a small pot, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Simmer on low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the cranberries to the syrup, stirring gently to coat them, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet. Let them sit for 15 minutes. Roll the cranberries in 3/4 cup of sugar until fully coated. Set aside.
Fresh Whipped Cream: In a medium bowl, beat together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe dollops of whipped cream onto each cheesecake bite.
Assemble: Place a few sugared cranberries on top of each cheesecake bite. Enjoy your festive treat!

How to Serve Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites

Serve these cheesecake bites on a beautiful platter for a stunning presentation. They can be enjoyed as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during holiday gatherings. Pair them with a hot beverage like coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy experience.

How to Store Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites

Store these cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you’re planning to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the cheesecake part and the sugared cranberries separately and combine them just before serving.

Tips to Make Sugared Cranberry Cheesecake Bites

Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
Don’t skip refrigerating the cheesecake bites; chilling enhances the flavor and texture.
Adjust the amount of sugar used for the cranberries based on your sweetness preference.

Variation

For a chocolate version, you can add cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling or use chocolate graham crackers for the crust.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cheesecake bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and add the whipped cream and cranberries before serving.

2. How can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

3. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are preferred for making sugared cranberries, but you can use frozen ones if you can’t find fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.