Description
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
Red velvet cake is a timeless American dessert, known for its vibrant red color and unique flavor. These cheesecake bites are a playful twist, combining the tangy creaminess of cheesecake with the rich, velvety taste of red velvet cake. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a sweet snack, these no-bake bites are easy to make and a delight to share!
1 box red velvet cake mix
Ingredients from cake mix packaging
16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
4 tbsp butter, room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups graham crackers, crushed
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Prepare red velvet cake mix and crumble when cooled.
2. Combine cream cheese, butter, sugar, crushed graham crackers, and vanilla.
3. Form cheesecake balls, chill, and roll in red velvet crumbs.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 151
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Allow it to cool completely, then crumble the entire cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a fork. Set aside in a large bowl.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Combine & Form: Add the crushed graham crackers to the cream cheese mixture and stir until a uniform dough forms. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth, compact balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Coat & Chill: Roll each cheesecake ball in the reserved red velvet cake crumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere. For best results, refrigerate the bites for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Serve them on a decorative platter for a party or potluck. For an elegant touch, drizzle them with white chocolate or cream cheese glaze. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. Consider packaging a few in a small box for a delightful homemade gift.
How-to Summary
Bake and crumble a red velvet cake. Mix cream cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla, and graham crackers into a filling. Form balls, roll in cake crumbs, and chill until firm for a perfect no-bake treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of a mix? Absolutely! Using a from-scratch cake will yield an even richer flavor. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before crumbling.
How long do these cheesecake bites last in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to 5 days. The flavors often meld and improve after a day.
Can I freeze them? Yes, they freeze very well. Place the chilled bites in a single layer on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
My mixture is too soft to roll. What should I do? This usually means the cream cheese or butter was too warm. Simply chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm it up.
What can I use instead of graham crackers? Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even additional cake crumbs make excellent substitutes for the graham cracker base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Dairy: Ensure cream cheese and butter are truly at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Overly Moist Cake: If your cake is too moist, the crumbs won’t coat properly. Let the cake sit out uncovered to dry slightly before crumbling.
- Skipping the Chill: Do not skip the chilling step. It is crucial for the bites to set and hold their shape.
- Rushing the Rolling: Roll the cheesecake mixture into tight, compact balls to prevent them from falling apart when coated.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are the ultimate fusion dessert, delivering iconic flavor in a fun, no-bake package. They are surprisingly simple to make yet impressive to serve. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing treat that perfectly balances tangy cheesecake with the rich, velvety essence of red velvet cake. Enjoy your delicious creation!