There’s a certain indulgence that comes with a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes, and these Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites fit the bill perfectly! I remember the first time I decided to blend my love for red velvet cake with the creamy delight of cheesecake. The result was a bite-sized dream that has quickly become a favorite at gatherings and cozy nights on the couch alike.
These delightful morsels boast that signature velvety texture and rich flavor, cleverly wrapped around a luscious cream cheese center. And the best part? They come together in just under an hour! Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these bites strike the perfect balance of elegance and ease. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe that will surely impress without the stress!
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
- These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, perfect for even novice bakers.
- The combination of rich red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake fills every bite with a delicious burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Their stunning appearance, adorned with white chocolate and festive sprinkles, makes them the ideal treat for any occasion, ensuring your dessert table looks fabulous.
- Not only are they crowd-pleasers, but they also save you time in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your guests while still serving up a delightful dessert.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites Ingredients
Ready to create a sumptuous delight? Here’s everything you’ll need!
For the Bites
- 1 cup dry red velvet cake mix – this is the star that gives these bites their signature color and flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – ensures a rich, moist texture in the dough.
- 1/4 cup water – helps bring the dry mix together to form a soft dough.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – provides that luscious, creamy center that complements the red velvet perfectly.
For the Sweet Coating
- 1 cup white chocolate chips – melt these for a decadent outer layer.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional) – use this to thin out the chocolate for easier dipping.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – for rolling the bites to add a touch of sweetness and prevent sticking.
- Red sprinkles (optional) – a fun, festive touch to make your bites pop!
For the Creamy Filling
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the cheesecake mixture for that deliciously rich taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely depth of flavor to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed) – adjust this to achieve a smooth, pipeable consistency.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from those incredible Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites that will wow your taste buds!
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
-
Mix the Dough: In a bowl, combine the dry red velvet cake mix, melted butter, and water until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should be smooth and not too sticky, which sets the stage for the bites.
-
Chill the Dough: Pop the dough into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to handle during shaping.
-
Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky and smooth. This base will provide that scrumptious cheesecake flavor in every bite.
-
Sweeten the Cream Cheese: Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to get a lovely, pipeable consistency.
-
Form Cheesecake Balls: Scoop small portions of the cheesecake mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a walnut. They should be cute and bite-sized, ready to be enveloped in red velvet.
-
Freeze the Cheesecake Balls: Place the formed cheesecake balls on a parchment-lined tray and freeze them for around 15 minutes. This makes the next steps a breeze since the filling will be less soft.
-
Shape the Dough: Take a small piece of chilled red velvet dough and flatten it out in your hand. Think of it as a little pocket for the cheesecake goodness.
-
Wrap the Bites: Place one cheesecake ball in the center of the flattened dough. Carefully wrap the dough around it, pinching to seal, and roll gently into a smooth ball. Repeat this for each cheesecake ball until you have a tray full of beautiful bites!
-
Melt the Chocolate: In the microwave, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. This transformation turns our bites into something truly special!
-
Optional Oil Addition: If desired, stir in the vegetable oil into the melted chocolate for a lovely glossy finish. It also makes dipping easier!
-
Dip the Bites: With finesse, dip each assembled ball into the melted white chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. You want a nice coating without too much!
-
Sprinkle and Set: Place the chocolate-coated bites back on the parchment-lined tray. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with red sprinkles if you’re feeling festive!
-
Chill to Set: Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chocolate coating to firm up perfectly, transforming them into little bites of bliss.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once set, these tasty Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are ready to indulge in! Serve them chilled or slightly cool for the best experience.
Optional: Garnish with extra sprinkles for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the red velvet dough and freeze it for up to 3 days, ensuring you have a quick dessert on hand. Similarly, the cheesecake filling can be prepared and kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours before rolling into balls. To maintain the quality, tightly wrap the prepared cheesecake balls in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container, making it easy to assemble just before serving. When it’s time to indulge, simply wrap the chilled filling in the frozen dough, dip in melted white chocolate, and let them set—resulting in delightful treats that are just as fabulous as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
Room Temperature: These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but be mindful of warm environments to maintain their shape.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps preserve the creaminess and keeps the bites fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites Variations
Feel free to make these delightful bites your own with these simple tweaks and substitutions!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap the red velvet cake mix for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs while still achieving that signature flavor.
-
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute in both the cake mix and cream cheese filling to create a version that’s kinder on your waistline but still indulgent.
-
Chocolate Twist: Use dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer coating that adds a decadent twist and enhances the chocolate experience.
-
Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the cheesecake filling for delightful crunch and added flavor; they harmonize beautifully with the red velvet.
-
Fruity Flavor: Add a splash of almond or orange extract to the cheesecake filling for an unexpected fruity note that harmonizes well with the rich chocolate coating.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the red velvet dough for a surprising hint of warmth that complements the sweetness.
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free dessert option.
-
Mini No-Bake Version: Skip the red velvet dough and coat chilled cheesecake balls with melted chocolate and sprinkles for a completely no-bake version that’s just as delectable!
Let these variations inspire your creativity in the kitchen, and enjoy every delicious bite!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites?
There’s something magical about pairing a divine dessert with the right accompaniments, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
-
Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee contrasts the sweetness of the bites beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the red velvet.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream complements the cheesecake perfectly, making each bite even more indulgent.
-
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These juicy berries add a fresh, fruity twist alongside the rich bites, bringing a burst of flavor and color to your dessert spread.
-
Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream elevates the richness of the bites and adds a delightful texture.
-
Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and subtle sweetness of sparkling wine will delight your palate and make any gathering feel more festive.
-
Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote drizzled over the bites introduces a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake.
-
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a cozy chocolate fondue station where guests can dip the bites, making for an interactive and fun dessert experience.
-
Nutty Granola: Serve a small bowl of nutty granola on the side for a crunchy contrast that adds an exciting texture to your dessert platter.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling for that smooth, creamy texture you desire.
- A common mistake is overmixing the dough; mix just until combined to maintain a tender bite.
- For easier handling, chill the dough for 15 minutes and freeze the cheesecake balls as well to make wrapping them with the red velvet dough much simpler.
- When melting white chocolate, do so in short intervals and keep an eye on the temperature to prevent burning, as even a small amount of overheating can ruin the chocolate’s consistency.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of red velvet cake mix should I use?
You should use a high-quality dry red velvet cake mix for the best flavor and color. Common brands available will work wonderfully, but look for one that doesn’t contain too many artificial ingredients.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites?
I recommend placing the leftovers in an airtight container and keeping them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy these indulgent treats throughout the week!
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place the bites in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can safely be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
What should I do if my white chocolate is too thick to dip?
No worries! If your melted white chocolate is too thick, simply stir in a tablespoon of vegetable oil while it’s still warm. This will help thin it out and make it much easier for dipping, giving your cheesecake bites a beautiful, glossy finish!
Can I use an alternative to cream cheese for the filling?
Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just make sure to choose one that mimics the texture and flavor of regular cream cheese for the best results.
Are these Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites suitable for kids?
Very! These bites are a hit with both kids and adults alike, so feel free to share. However, do consider any allergies or dietary restrictions you may need to accommodate, especially regarding the chocolate or cake mix used. Enjoy the baking adventure with your little helpers!
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry red velvet cake mix this is the star that gives these bites their signature color and flavor
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted ensures a rich, moist texture
- 1/4 cup water helps bring the dry mix together
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened provides the creamy center
- 1 cup white chocolate chips melt these for a decadent outer layer
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil optional, for thinning chocolate
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for rolling the bites
- red sprinkles optional, for decoration
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar sweetens the cheesecake mixture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds flavor
- 1 tablespoon milk adjust as needed for consistency
Method
- Mix the Dough: In a bowl, combine the dry red velvet cake mix, melted butter, and water until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes to firm it up.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until silky.
- Sweeten the Cream Cheese: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mix until creamy. Adjust with milk if too thick.
- Form Cheesecake Balls: Scoop small portions of the filling and roll into balls.
- Freeze the Cheesecake Balls: Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for about 15 minutes.
- Shape the Dough: Flatten a small piece of chilled red velvet dough.
- Wrap the Bites: Place a cheesecake ball in the center, wrap and seal the dough around it.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Optional Oil Addition: Stir in vegetable oil into the melted chocolate for glossy finish.
- Dip the Bites: Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
- Sprinkle and Set: Place on parchment-lined tray, add sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to harden the chocolate.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled or slightly cool for the best experience.
Leave a Comment