These cute apple cheesecake bites are like mini desserts bursting with flavor! Smooth cheesecake meets sweet apple chunks in a tasty treat that’s easy to enjoy.
Perfect for parties or just a snack at home, I love how they satisfy my sweet tooth without being too heavy. Plus, they look so adorable on a plate! 🍏🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Essential for the base, these add texture and flavor. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as alternatives.
Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using ricotta or a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Apples: A tart apple like Granny Smith balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. You can substitute with any baking apple, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, based on your taste preference.
Butter: This adds richness to the crust and apple topping. For a lighter option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
How Do You Ensure Your Cheesecake Bites Are Perfectly Set?
Getting the cheesecake texture just right is key here. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy to avoid lumps. Start with room temperature cream cheese.
- Don’t overbeat the egg! Just mix until it’s incorporated—this helps prevent cracks.
- Watch the baking time closely. It’s better to underbake slightly, as the cheesecakes will firm up as they cool.
- Let them cool to room temperature before chilling in the fridge to help them set properly.
Using these tips will help you create delicious apple cheesecake bites that everyone will enjoy! Happy baking!
How to Make Apple Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the Apple Topping:
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Optional:
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of active prep time and approximately 20 minutes of baking. Don’t forget to factor in at least 2 hours for chilling! So, in total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 50 minutes, most of which is hands-off time while they cool and set.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bites bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir until the crumbs are moist and clump together. Then, press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture firmly into the bottom of each cup of the mini muffin tin. This will be your crust base.
3. Bake the Crust:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the crusts for about 5 minutes. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
While the crust is cooling, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Then, gently add the egg and beat just until incorporated—be careful not to overmix to keep the filling nice and fluffy.
5. Fill the Muffin Tins:
Spoon the cheesecake mixture into each crust, filling them almost to the top. They will puff up a bit while baking.
6. Bake the Cheesecake Bites:
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. You want the centers to be set but still slightly jiggly.
7. Prepare the Apple Topping:
While the cheesecakes are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apple, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
8. Cool and Chill:
After baking, let the cheesecake bites cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, allowing them to firm up.
9. Add the Topping:
Once chilled, spoon the warm caramelized apples over each cheesecake bite. If you like, drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful apple cheesecake bites chilled, and watch them disappear in no time!
These mini cheesecakes are sure to impress with their creamy texture and wonderful apple flavor, all packed into perfect little bites! Enjoy your baking experience!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for balancing sweetness, you can use any variety you prefer, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even Gala apples. Just make sure they’re firm so they hold up well when cooked.
Can I Make These Cheesecake Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. You can also use almond flour mixed with a bit of melted butter for a different flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled, so just pull them out to serve when you’re ready!
Can I Freeze Apple Cheesecake Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
