Save
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites are a creamy and playful treat that combine everything I love about strawberry shortcake ice cream bars with the tang of a good cheesecake. These bite-sized desserts are a party favorite and never last long whenever I bring them out for gatherings or family movie nights.
My first time making these was for a picnic and my friends still talk about them years later. Everyone loves that first crunchy bite followed by silky cheesecake.
Ingredients
- Crushed strawberry crunch cereal: This gives you the iconic flavor and a bright pink color Try to use a fresh berry flavored variety for the best taste
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the coating crisp up Use a fine grain for easier mixing
- Melted butter: Helps the coating stick and adds richness Choose real butter for flavor
- Cream cheese: This forms the creamy body of the bites Always use brick style for stubborn firmness
- Sour cream: Brings tang and lightens the filling Select one without thickeners for clean taste
- Heavy cream: Whipped for extra fluffiness Go for the highest fat content you find
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile Pure extract really makes a difference
- Strawberry puree or jam: Infuses gentle fruity notes Look for jam with few fillers or make a quick puree from fresh berries
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Coating:
- Mix the crushed strawberry crunch cereal granulated sugar and melted butter in a medium bowl until the texture feels like wet sand. Set this aside while you make the filling
- Make the Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a large bowl use a hand mixer to beat cream cheese and granulated sugar together. Keep mixing until no lumps remain and it is smooth and light. Add vanilla extract and mix again until just blended
- Whip the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate bowl whip heavy cream on high with a handheld mixer until stiff peaks hold. This is crucial for a fluffy but sturdy cheesecake bite
- Combine and Flavor:
- Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese base. Swirl in sour cream and then strawberry puree or jam until you see a uniform pink color and creamy texture
- Shape the Bites:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to gather a portion of cheesecake mixture then roll it gently into a ball about the size of a walnut
- Coat Each Bite:
- Drop each cheesecake ball into the strawberry crunch mixture and roll so the coating sticks evenly all around. Press gently as you roll so the coating will adhere
- Chill Until Firm:
- Place the coated bites back on the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour so they set up. This ensures you get the signature creamy but sliceable center
- Finish and Serve:
- Just before serving decorate with chopped fresh strawberries and an extra pinch of crunch cereal for color and extra flavor
Save
I am obsessed with fresh strawberry puree in the filling because it tastes like summer no matter what time of year. Watching my niece steal the prettiest pink bite off the plate always makes me laugh and reminds me why I keep making these for family gatherings.
Storage Tips
Keep the cheesecake bites chilled in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to freeze them wrap each one individually and store for up to a month. Let thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving for the best creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find strawberry crunch cereal any freeze dried strawberry flavored cereal or crisp rice cereal tossed with freeze dried strawberry powder works. For a lighter version try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Strawberry jam is an easy swap for fresh puree when berries are out of season.
Save
Serving Suggestions
These look adorable piled on a dessert platter or served in mini cupcake wrappers for parties. For a fun twist add a drizzle of melted white chocolate. They are perfect for showers birthday parties or as an after dinner treat when you want something sweet but not too heavy.
Cultural Twist
This recipe is inspired by strawberry shortcake ice cream bars which have nostalgic roots in American summer treats. It combines classic cheesecake methods with a playful cereal coating for a dessert that appeals to all ages and brings out smiles at first bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the strawberry crunch coating?
Mix crushed strawberry-flavored cereal with granulated sugar and melted butter until combined. Use this blend to coat the bites for a crispy, fruity finish.
- → Can I use strawberry jam instead of puree?
Yes, you can use either strawberry puree or strawberry jam for sweetness and fruit flavor in the mixture.
- → How long should I chill the bites before serving?
Refrigerate the finished bites for at least one hour, or until firm, to ensure the perfect texture and structure.
- → What’s the best way to garnish these treats?
Top with chopped fresh strawberries and an extra sprinkle of strawberry cereal crunch for a colorful, appealing look.
- → Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely. They can be made in advance and kept chilled until ready to serve, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.