Cheesecake Bites with Diploma Picks (Printer-friendly)

Creamy bite-sized cheesecakes on graham crusts topped with fresh berries and festive touches for celebrations.

# Ingredient List:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 tablespoons sour cream

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries, diced
10 - 2 tablespoons fruit preserves, optional

→ Decoration

11 - Graduation diploma picks or paper and twine picks

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cupcake liners.
02 - Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly combined.
03 - Spoon 1 teaspoon of crust mixture into each liner and press down firmly to create an even base.
04 - Bake crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
05 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
06 - Add egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
07 - Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling into each liner over the crust, smoothing the tops evenly.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until centers are set but still slightly jiggly.
09 - Remove from oven and cool in pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10 - Refrigerate cheesecakes for at least 1 hour until fully chilled and set.
11 - Top each cheesecake bite with fresh mixed berries. Optionally warm fruit preserves and brush lightly over berries for shine.
12 - Insert diploma picks into each cheesecake bite before serving for festive presentation.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfectly portioned bite-sized treats for easy serving and enjoyment.
  • Simple to make with basic ingredients and minimal baking time.
  • Customizable toppings and decorations for any celebration theme.
  • A creamy, smooth texture combined with a crunchy crust for delightful contrast.
02 -
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
  • Do not overbake; the cheesecake centers should be slightly jiggly when done to ensure a creamy texture.
  • Warm fruit preserves briefly before brushing to add a glossy finish to the berries.
  • Line the pan carefully and press crust firmly to prevent the bites from crumbling.
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