Introduction
Get ready to indulge in the decadent delight of Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites—without the cream cheese! These adorable little treats combine the rich flavor of red velvet with a luscious cheesecake filling, all while keeping things light and fluffy. Perfect for any occasion or simply for satisfying that sweet tooth, these bites are sure to wow your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Red Velvet Base:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate graham crackers
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- For the Cheesecake:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon flour
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 bites
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. For the Red Velvet Base: In a bowl, mix the crushed chocolate graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup, setting a solid foundation for your bites.
3. Beat together the vinegar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth. Pour this mixture over your crust.
4. For the Cheesecake: In a blender, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and flour. Blend until silky smooth.
5. Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet layer in each muffin cup, filling them up.
6. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the centers are set. Let them cool completely in the pan, and then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
Enjoy these heavenly Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites that are not only beautiful but also a delicious treat for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a mini muffin tin.
Step 2: Prepare the Red Velvet Base
In a bowl, mix the crushed chocolate graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined. Press about a tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin cup, setting a solid foundation for your bites.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Beat together the vinegar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth. Pour this mixture over your crust in each muffin cup.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a blender, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and flour. Blend until silky smooth.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet layer in each muffin cup, filling them up to the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for about 20 minutes or until the centers are set.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let them cool completely in the pan, and then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Tip for Success
Ensure that the ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Variation Ideas
Consider adding chocolate chips or crushed nuts to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestion
Top with a dollop of whipped topping or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Crushing Graham Crackers
Use a food processor for quick and fine crushing, or place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Making a Cheesecake Filling
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending. Use a high-speed blender for a smooth and creamy texture.
Baking Mini Cheesecakes
Avoid overbaking. The center should remain slightly jiggly as it will firm up while cooling.
FAQ
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of cottage cheese and yogurt?
Yes, but this recipe is designed to be cream cheese free. Regular cream cheese will change the texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/4 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes.
Can these cheesecake bites be frozen?
Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Enjoying These Sweet Bites
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, combining the textures of cheesecake with the rich flavor of red velvet, all while keeping it light and creamy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
Try a no-bake version with a cookie dough filling.
Lemon Blueberry Muffin Bites
Add a fruity twist with a lemon-infused cheesecake layer.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Bites
Layer with creamy peanut butter for a nutty complement to red velvet.
