Bookmark
Creamy cheesecake bites get a fun makeover with a crispy, strawberry flavored cereal crunch coating that adds the perfect texture contrast alongside juicy strawberry swirls. These little treats are simple to prepare with no baking involved and bring a refreshing twist to classic cheesecake flavors, making them ideal for parties or an easy sweet fix any time you want a pop of berry and cream.
I first made these during a picnic, and my friends still talk about them years later. Everyone loves that first crunchy bite followed by the silky cheesecake center.
Ingredients
- Crushed strawberry crunch cereal: delivers iconic flavor and bright pink color. Try to find a fresh berry flavored variety for best results
- Granulated sugar: adds sweetness and helps the coating become crisp. Fine grain sugar mixes more evenly
- Melted butter: binds the coating and adds richness. Choose real butter for full flavor
- Cream cheese: forms the creamy body of the bites. Brick style is firmer and ideal
- Sour cream: adds tang and lightens the filling. Pick one without thickeners for a clean taste
- Heavy cream: whipped for fluffiness. Use the highest fat content available
- Vanilla extract: deepens flavor profile. Pure extract really elevates the taste
- Strawberry puree or jam: infuses gentle fruity notes. Look for jam with minimal fillers or make a quick puree from fresh berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Coating:
- Mix the crushed strawberry crunch cereal, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until the texture resembles wet sand. Set aside while you make the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and light with no lumps. Add vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
- Whip the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream on high speed with a handheld mixer until stiff peaks hold. This step is crucial for fluffy but sturdy bites.
- Combine and Flavor:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Swirl in sour cream and strawberry puree or jam until you get a uniform pink color and creamy texture.
- Shape the Bites:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion the mixture and roll gently into walnut sized balls.
- Coat Each Bite:
- Drop each cheesecake ball into the strawberry crunch mixture and roll so the coating sticks evenly all around. Press gently during rolling to ensure good adhesion.
- Chill Until Firm:
- Place the coated bites back on the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour so they set up perfectly. This step ensures the creamy center stays just right.
- Finish and Serve:
- Just before serving, decorate with chopped fresh strawberries and an extra sprinkle of the strawberry cereal crunch for color and extra flavor.
I love fresh strawberry puree in the filling because it always tastes like summer no matter the season. Watching my niece sneak the prettiest pink bites off the plate always makes me laugh and reminds me why these treats are a family favorite.
Storage Tips
Keep the cheesecake bites chilled in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also freeze them by wrapping each bite individually and storing for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving to preserve that creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If strawberry crunch cereal is hard to find, try freeze dried strawberry flavored cereal or crisp rice cereal with a sprinkle of freeze dried strawberry powder. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter filling. Strawberry jam works well too when fresh puree is not available.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bites look adorable piled on a dessert platter or nestled in mini cupcake wrappers for easy party serving. A drizzle of melted white chocolate adds a fancy touch. They work great for showers, birthdays, or as a light after dinner treat.
Theyre a playful, crowd pleasing dessert that is perfect for parties or weeknight treats.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I make the strawberry crunch coating?
Mix crushed strawberry-flavored cereal with granulated sugar and melted butter until combined. This blend creates a crispy, fruity coating for the bites.
- → Can I use strawberry jam instead of puree?
Yes, using strawberry jam or puree will both provide sweetness and a rich fruit flavor throughout the bites.
- → How long should I chill the bites before serving?
Refrigerate the coated bites for at least one hour to ensure they are firm and maintain their shape.
- → What’s the best way to garnish these treats?
Top each bite with chopped fresh strawberries and an extra sprinkle of strawberry cereal crunch for added color and texture.
- → Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely. They can be made in advance and kept chilled until serving, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.