Apple Cheesecake Bites are tasty little treats that pack the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweetness of apples. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
These bite-sized goodies are super easy to make and even easier to eat! I like to pop a few in my mouth while watching a movie. Who can resist that combo? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These create a classic cheesecake crust. If you can’t find them, crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits work well, too!
Cream cheese: The key to that creamy filling! Use full-fat for a richer taste. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Neufchatel cheese is a good substitute.
Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji are fantastic for their crispness and sweetness. You can use any firm apple, but tart varieties like Granny Smith will add a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Granulated sugar: This is in both the crust and filling. If you’re aiming to cut back, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia, just adjust the quantity as needed!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Cheesecake Filling?
The cheesecake filling needs a bit of attention to be perfectly creamy. Be sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this makes it easier to blend without lumps.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth first.
- Add sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition.
- Finally, add the egg and vanilla, blending until everything is just combined. Over-mixing can introduce too much air, which may cause cracks!
Just remember to let it bake until slightly jiggly in the center. It’ll firm up as it cools!
Delicious Apple Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Topping:
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (preferably a crisp apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-18 minutes to bake. You will also need to chill the cheesecake bites for at least 2-3 hours before serving. Overall, you can expect to invest around 3 hours and 30 minutes to make these delightful treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or give each cup a light greasing. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Form the Base:
Press about 1-2 teaspoons of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup. This will form the base of your cheesecake bites. Once pressed down, place the muffin tin in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the sugar and continue beating until combined. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract; mix just until smooth, being careful not to overbeat.
4. Fill the Cups:
Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and evenly spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each about 3/4 full. Pop the tin into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still slightly jiggle.
5. Cool and Chill:
Once done, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the bites cool to room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
6. Prepare the Apple Topping:
While the cheesecake bites chill, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Stir often until the apples are tender and coated in a syrupy glaze, about 5-7 minutes. If necessary, add the tablespoon of water to help loosen the glaze.
7. Assemble and Serve:
Once the cheesecake bites are fully set, carefully remove them from the muffin tin or liners. Generously spoon the apple topping onto each cheesecake bite. Serve chilled, and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade apple cheesecake bites!
These bites make a delightful fall dessert or a scrumptious snack anytime. Share with friends or keep all to yourself—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples for the Topping?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are great choices for their sweetness and crisp texture, you can use any firm apples. Granny Smith will add a tartness that balances out the sweetness of the cheesecake if you prefer that flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Cheesecake Bites?
Store any leftover apple cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them slightly in the microwave if you prefer them warm before serving again!
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the crust the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it covered, and allow it to soften a bit at room temperature before pressing it into the muffin tins.
What If I Don’t Have Mini Muffin Tins?
If you don’t have mini muffin tins, you can make these cheesecake bites in a regular muffin tin. Just adjust the baking time, as they may need a few extra minutes to bake through. Make sure to adjust the serving size accordingly, too!
