Looking for a bite-sized dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent? These Heavenly Raspberry Cream Cheese Bitesare the perfect treat! With a creamy, tangy filling and bursts of raspberry flavor, these bites will become a go-to for parties, family gatherings, or when you simply want to spoil yourself with a delicious snack.
Why You’ll Love These Bites
These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites combine the smooth richness of cream cheese with the bright tartness of fresh raspberries, all nestled in a buttery crust or baked shell. They’re quick to make and look elegant—perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a personal craving.
Ingredients
For the Crust (Optional):
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or shortbread cookie crumbs)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, slightly mashed (plus extra for garnish)
For the Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin or mini tart pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Spatula
- Piping bag or plastic bag with a cut corner (for filling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust (Optional)
If you’re looking for a firm base for these bites, you can make a simple graham cracker or cookie crust. If you prefer to skip the crust and go straight for the cream cheese filling, jump to Step 2!
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Tins: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each cavity of your muffin tin or tart pans, pressing it down with the back of a spoon to create an even crust.
- Bake: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar, Vanilla, and Lemon: Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, beating until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks using an electric mixer.
- Fold the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in Mashed Raspberries: Carefully fold in the mashed raspberries, leaving some streaks for a swirled look.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
- Fill the Crust: Once the crust is cool (if using), spoon or pipe the raspberry cream cheese filling into each crust cavity, filling them generously.
- Chill: Place the filled bites in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours, allowing the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, lightly dust the tops of the bites with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Garnish: Top each bite with a fresh raspberry and a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cream cheese mixture set and gives you that perfect texture.
- Crust Alternatives: Instead of a graham cracker crust, try using crushed vanilla wafers or a pre-made pie crust if you’re short on time.
- Fruit Substitutions: You can easily swap out the raspberries for other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries to change up the flavor.
Conclusion
These Heavenly Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are a wonderful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party or just a little treat at home, they are sure to be a hit! Their vibrant raspberry flavor and rich cream cheese filling make each bite heavenly and unforgettable.
Stay Connected
For more bite-sized dessert inspirations, subscribe to our newsletter and share your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites with us using #HeavenlyBites. Enjoy every delicious bite!