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These strawberry crunch cheesecake bites bring together a smooth, creamy cheesecake center with a sweet and crunchy strawberry Oreo coating for a bite-sized treat that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. They are perfect for gatherings, quick desserts, or anytime you want something indulgent without the fuss of a whole cheesecake.
I first made these cheesecake bites for a summer party and they disappeared within minutes. Now whenever I bring them along, people ask for the recipe on the spot.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: full fat for the best creaminess but reduced fat works if you prefer
- Pure Vanilla Extract: adds essential warm flavor that makes the cheesecake special
- Heavy Whipping Cream: chilled well to whip up stiff peaks for the perfect light texture
- Powdered Sugar: adjust to your sweetness level, it blends smoothly without graininess
- Golden Oreos: crushed to add a gentle vanilla crunch, you can swap with vanilla wafers or graham crackers for a different twist
- Strawberry Gelatin Powder: gives a sweet strawberry flavor and a lovely rosy color, or try crushed freeze-dried strawberries as a natural alternative
- Unsalted Melted Butter: binds the crunchy coating and adds richness, unsalted to keep flavors balanced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop together the Crunch Coating:
- In a bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos with the strawberry gelatin powder. Pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until the mixture feels like wet sand, crumbly but sticks together when pressed. This will be the flavorful outer coating.
- Whip the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and fluffy. Add the pure vanilla extract and powdered sugar then mix well. In another bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a light and creamy filling.
- Form and Freeze the Balls:
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the cheesecake mixture into roughly 1-inch balls. Place these on a lined baking sheet and freeze for about 20 to 30 minutes until they are firm enough to handle.
- Coat and Serve:
- Once the cheesecake bites are frozen, roll each one in the strawberry Oreo crunch mixture. Press lightly to make sure the coating sticks well. They are ready to enjoy immediately or can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
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Storage Tips
Store any leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days so they stay fresh and creamy. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the freezer, separated on a tray before bagging, to prevent sticking. Thaw slightly in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Golden Oreos try vanilla wafers or graham crackers to maintain a sweet, buttery crunch. For the strawberry flavor in the coating, crushed freeze-dried strawberries work well as a natural option if you prefer not to use gelatin powder. You can swap full fat cream cheese with reduced fat but expect some difference in richness.
Serving Suggestions
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These cheesecake bites are perfect on their own but also pair beautifully with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra touch. Serve them chilled alongside coffee or tea for afternoon guests or as a light dessert after dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I get the cheesecake filling smooth and fluffy?
Beat the cream cheese thoroughly until soft before adding vanilla and sugar. Then carefully fold whipped cream into the mixture to keep a light texture.
- → Can I substitute Golden Oreos in the crunch coating?
Yes, vanilla wafers or graham crackers work well as alternatives, keeping a crisp texture with a slightly different flavor.
- → What’s the purpose of chilling the heavy cream?
Well-chilled heavy cream whips better and holds stiff peaks, which is essential for a light and airy filling.
- → How should I store these bites after preparation?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Is there a natural alternative to strawberry gelatin powder?
Crushed freeze-dried strawberries can be used to add natural strawberry flavor and color without gelatin.