Name: Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 16 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening; Optional: Crushed nuts, sprinkles, sea salt for topping

Indulging in a sweet treat can often feel like a guilty pleasure, but with our Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the weight of regret. These delightful bites combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the lusciousness of chocolate, creating a mouthwatering dessert that is as delicious as it is visually appealing. Perfectly portioned for sharing (or not!), these bites are an ideal choice for parties, dessert tables, or a special night in. What really stand out about this treat is its versatile nature; they’re easy to prepare and set up a beautiful presentation that can impress anyone. Best of all, it’s a no-bake recipe after the initial bake, meaning your oven gets a break while you prepare these delicious bites!

One of the best parts of this Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites recipe is its simplicity. With just a few essential ingredients like cream cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dessert in no time. The creamy cheesecake base, enhanced by a luscious chocolate coating, pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer the crunch of nuts, the colorful burst of sprinkles, or a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweet, the options are endless. Moreover, these bite-sized desserts allow everyone to enjoy a little sweet indulgence without overdoing it—perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, with being vegetarian-friendly, they open up to a wider range of dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites

Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
Customizable with your choice of toppings for a personal touch.
Easy to make and no special skills required.
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home.
Vegetarian-friendly!

Ingredients

16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Optional: Crushed nuts, sprinkles, sea salt for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it’s heating up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure it overhangs slightly on the sides. This will help you remove the cheesecake easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Combine the Cheesecake Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat these together using a hand mixer until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Next, add in the vanilla extract, eggs, and sour cream; mix these together until they’re well incorporated. This mixture will form the base of your cheesecake, so make sure there are no lumps.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the prepared cheesecake batter into your lined baking pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle. This ensures a creamy texture when chilled. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Chill and Freeze

After cooling, move the cheesecake to the freezer for at least 2 hours until it’s firm. Once set, take it out and cut it into bite-sized squares. Ensure they’re evenly sized for consistent coating!

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. This chocolate mixture will create a delicious outer shell for your cheesecake bites.

Step 6: Coat the Cheesecake Bites

Take each cheesecake square and dip it into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the coated bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you’d like, add your desired toppings while the chocolate is still warm. After that, transfer the baking sheet into the fridge to allow the chocolate to set.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has solidified, your Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites are ready to be served! Enjoy them chilled for the best taste experience.

Variations

Protein: Add a tablespoon of protein powder to the cheesecake mixture for added nutrition.
Vegetables: Use a hint of pureed pumpkin or beetroot for a unique twist on flavor and color.
Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cheesecake batter.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for the perfect texture!
Experiment with different chocolate types: white chocolate for a different flavor or dark chocolate for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these bites with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Serve on a decorative platter with drizzles of chocolate for an elegant appearance.

Tips

For extra crunch, mix in chopped nuts into the cheesecake mixture.
Keep these covered in the fridge to maintain their freshness.
For a fun twist, try using flavored chocolate, like mint or orange infused chocolate.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling and freezing)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per bite
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 100mg

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites ahead of time! They stay fresh when stored in the refrigerator for about a week.

What other toppings can I use?

You can use a range of toppings like shredded coconut, chocolate drizzle, or even edible gold leaf for a fancy touch!

Can I use different flavors of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with flavored options like mascarpone for a different taste.

What’s the best way to store these bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites are not just a dessert; they’re a moment of bliss to indulge in! Their creamy center and rich chocolate coating create a decadent treat that’s hard to resist. Whether for a special occasion or just a little bit of daily joy, these bites are sure to hit the spot. Remember to take advantage of the endless topping possibilities to make them uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with in the comments below. Happy baking and enjoy your sweet adventure with these cheesecake delights!