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These no-bake Christmas cheesecake bites are the perfect festive treat for holiday parties or last-minute dessert cravings. Soft, creamy, and beautifully decorated, they bring the classic cheesecake flavor without needing an oven. They are simple to make, kid-friendly, and allow you to get creative with holiday colors and sprinkles.
I first made these on a busy Christmas Eve when I wanted something sweet but fuss-free. Now they are a holiday tradition at our gatherings and always vanish quickly.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: softened to room temperature for smooth texture
- Powdered sugar: to add sweetness without graininess
- Vanilla extract: for a warm aromatic note – use pure extract if possible for the best flavor
- White chocolate chips: melted to blend seamlessly into the cream cheese mixture, lending richness
- Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs: for a gentle crunch and subtle sweetness—fresh crumbs work best
- Whipped topping: gently folded in for lightness and airy texture—thaw fully for best results
- Red and green melting chocolate or candy melts: used for colorful coating, choose vibrant colors for festive appeal
- Holiday sprinkles: for finishing touches to make each bite festive and fun
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it becomes creamy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly so the sweetness and flavor distribute evenly without lumps.
- Melt the White Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short 20-second bursts, stirring between each until the chips are fully melted and glossy. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the cream cheese mixture when added.
- Add the Crumbs and Whipped Topping:
- Stir the crushed graham crackers into the cream cheese mixture, incorporating them fully for texture. Then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula with a light hand to keep the mixture fluffy, avoiding overmixing.
- Chill and Shape:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 40 minutes to firm up the mixture. Once chilled, scoop small portions and roll into approximately one-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick.
- Melt and Color the Coating:
- Melt red and green candy melts separately either in the microwave or using a double boiler, following package instructions carefully to avoid burning. Dip each cheesecake ball into the melted candy to coat, then place back on parchment paper.
- Decorate and Finish:
- While the coating is still wet, sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the bites to stick. Let them set fully in the refrigerator for about an hour or until firm before serving.
White chocolate is my favorite ingredient here because it adds the perfect sweet creaminess that blends beautifully with the tang of cream cheese. One Christmas, my kids helped me dip and decorate these and it turned into a fun family tradition that lasts every year.
Storage Tips
Store the cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to five days making them great for preparing ahead of time. If freezing, place them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag to avoid clumping. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, substitute crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for graham crackers depending on flavor preference. You can swap whipped topping for homemade whipped cream but be aware the texture might be slightly different. Use milk chocolate or colored candy melts if you want to change up the color scheme.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bites are delightful on their own but also pair well with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit compote. Arrange them on a festive platter with peppermint sticks or alongside holiday cookies for a beautiful dessert spread.
Enjoy these easy festive treats that make holiday celebrations sweeter and more fun.
FAQs about Recipes
- → Can I use a different type of cookie crumbs?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or other cookie crumbs to suit your taste.
- → How long should I chill the cheesecake mixture?
Refrigerate the mixture for 30 to 40 minutes until firm enough to shape into balls without sticking.
- → What is the best way to melt white chocolate chips?
Melt white chocolate chips in short 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between intervals to prevent burning.
- → Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, freshly whipped cream can replace store-bought whipped topping for a lighter, fresher texture.
- → How do I prevent candy melts from clumping?
Melt candy melts slowly over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts while stirring frequently for a smooth coating.