Save A show-stopping, interactive dessert board featuring creamy cheesecake bites and an array of delicious toppings for a customizable sweet experience.
I first served this deconstructed dessert board at a family celebration. Everyone loved picking their favorite toppings and creating unique cheesecakes. It turned dessert into a creative, shared experience that's now a tradition for our gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cheesecake Bites: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (120 g) graham cracker crumbs
- Toppings: 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, sliced, 1 cup (125 g) fresh blueberries, 1 cup (150 g) raspberries, 1/2 cup (120 ml) salted caramel sauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) chocolate ganache or hot fudge, 1/2 cup (80 g) crushed Oreos, 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped toasted pecans, 1/2 cup (60 g) mini chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (60 g) toasted coconut flakes, 1/4 cup (40 g) rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add remaining wet ingredients:
- Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream; continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.
- Shape cheesecake bites:
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, form the cheesecake mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Coat with crumbs:
- Roll half of the balls in graham cracker crumbs to coat; leave the rest plain for variety.
- Arrange bites:
- Arrange cheesecake bites on a large serving board or platter.
- Prepare toppings:
- Neatly arrange all toppings in small bowls or directly on the board around the cheesecake bites.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to dip, drizzle, and top their cheesecake bites as desired.
Save Sharing this dessert board with my kids turned a regular night into a sweet memory. Everyone got creative with their own bite-sized cheesecakes, making it a fun and interactive treat for all ages.
Required Tools
Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, mixing bowls, cookie scoop or tablespoon, serving platter or board, small bowls for toppings
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream), gluten (graham crackers, Oreos), and nuts (pecans). May contain soy (chocolate), coconut, and other allergens depending on topping choices.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 385, Total Fat: 26 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 5 g
Save Set out extra napkins and encourage your guests to try new topping combinations. Enjoy the fun and delicious results!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep cheesecake bites from sticking?
Chilling the bites before serving and coating with graham crumbs reduces stickiness and helps maintain shape.
- → Can I prepare the board ahead of time?
You can make cheesecake bites up to a day in advance; add toppings right before serving for freshest results.
- → What toppings pair best with creamy bites?
Fresh berries, caramel, chocolate sauce, nuts, crushed cookies, and coconut flakes all add texture and robust flavors.
- → How can I make the board gluten-free?
Substitute graham crackers and Oreos with gluten-free cookies or crumbs in both the coating and toppings.
- → Are there any easy flavor variations?
Add lemon zest, a splash of liqueur, or swap vanilla for almond extract to change up the cheesecake base flavor.
- → What drinks pair well with the board?
Coffee, dessert wine, or sparkling beverages enhance the creamy texture and balance sweet toppings delightfully.