Looking for a delicious bite-sized dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for special occasions? These Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are just what you need! With a creamy cheesecake center, a hint of strawberry flavor, and a delicate pink coating, they’re the ideal treat for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any festive gathering. The colorful sprinkles add a fun, decorative touch that makes each bite feel like a celebration. Best of all, these cheesecake bites are easy to prepare and require no baking, making them a quick and delicious option for any sweet craving.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Bites:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
- 1 (13.25-ounce) box strawberry cake mix*
- 12 ounces almond bark or pink melting wafers
For Decoration (Optional):
- Melted white chocolate for drizzling
- Valentine’s Day-themed sprinkles or festive decorations
*Note: Using a strawberry cake mix gives these bites their flavor and color, but ensure it’s safe to eat raw. For safety, heat-treat the cake mix by baking it at 350°F for 5 minutes before using it.
Instructions
Prepare the Cheesecake Bites:
- Mix Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the fine sea salt and clear vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate the Cake Mix: Gradually add the strawberry cake mix to the cream cheese mixture, blending until everything is fully combined and forms a thick, dough-like consistency. If needed, refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Bites: Once the mixture is firm enough to handle, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into small balls with your hands. Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they are spaced apart. Continue shaping and placing them until all the mixture has been used.
- Chill the Bites: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the cheesecake bites for 30 minutes to allow them to set and firm up.
Coat and Decorate:
- Melt the Coating: While the bites are chilling, melt the almond bark or pink melting wafers according to the package instructions, either in the microwave in 15-second intervals or using a double boiler. Stir until smooth and completely melted.
- Dip the Bites: Remove the cheesecake bites from the refrigerator. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each bite into the melted coating, letting any excess drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
- Decorate (Optional): While the coating is still wet, add festive sprinkles to each bite for a decorative touch. If you’d like, melt a little white chocolate and drizzle it over the coated bites for a contrasting design.
- Let Set: Allow the coating to harden at room temperature or place the bites back in the refrigerator for a few minutes until fully set.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are a delightful and festive treat that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! With a creamy strawberry cheesecake center and a fun, colorful coating, they’re both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy them for Valentine’s Day, a special occasion, or simply whenever you want a sweet, no-bake dessert that’s sure to impress.