Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1⁄2 cups crushed graham crackers
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⁄2 cup sour cream

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Tools Needed

• Standard muffin pan
• Cupcake liners (white or decorative)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spoon, spatula, and measuring cups

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Place cupcake liners into a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. Mix crushed graham crackers and sugar in a bowl.
3. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
4. Spoon about 1 1⁄2 tablespoons of crust mixture into each cupcake liner.
5. Press firmly down using the back of a spoon or bottom of a small jar to compress the crust.
6. Pre-bake at 325°F (163°C) for 5 minutes.

This helps set the crust before adding the filling so it stays crisp and stable.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar and mix until creamy without lumps.
3. Blend in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
4. Stir in sour cream and vanilla until fully incorporated.
5. Do not over-mix, as too much air can cause cracks.

The batter should look silky and thick.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

1. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cheesecake batter over each crust until cups are about 3⁄4 full.
2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–18 minutes or until centers look set but still slightly wiggly.
3. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open to cool gradually for 10 minutes.
4. Then remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Gradual cooling prevents sinking or cracks.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping

1. Once cooled, spoon 3–5 cherries over the top of each cheesecake bite.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.

For best results, chill overnight. The flavor improves as they rest.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bites

• Always use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter.
• Do not over-bake. Removing them while slightly jiggly keeps them creamy.
• Chill thoroughly before serving for the best texture.
• Use high-quality pie filling for the best cherry flavor.
• If crust sticks to liners, spray lightly with baking spray before adding crust.
• You can double the recipe easily for large gatherings.