Cheesecake Bites with Diploma (Printable)

Creamy bite-sized treats with graham crust and fresh berries, perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cupcake liners.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter 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 until lightly set. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
05 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
06 - Add egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
07 - Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling over each crust. Smooth the tops gently with a spatula.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Do not overbake.
09 - Remove from oven and allow cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
10 - Transfer cheesecakes to a wire rack and cool to room temperature.
11 - Refrigerate cheesecakes for at least 1 hour until fully chilled and set.
12 - Top each cheesecake bite with fresh berries. If desired, warm fruit preserves and brush lightly over berries for shine.
13 - Insert a diploma pick into each cheesecake bite just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfectly portioned bite-sized cheesecakes ideal for parties and celebrations
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal baking time
  • Customizable with your choice of fresh berries and flavor variations
  • Festive diploma picks add a fun, graduation-themed presentation
  • Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days
02 -
  • Bring cream cheese to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling
  • Press the crust firmly into each liner to prevent crumbling when serving
  • Don't overbake—the centers should be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven
  • Chill for at least one hour to allow the cheesecakes to set properly
  • Warm fruit preserves slightly before brushing for a beautiful glossy finish
  • Add diploma picks just before serving to keep them secure and upright
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