Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites

Cherry Bites are the perfect combination of convenience, elegance, and indulgence in one small, irresistible dessert. They deliver everything that makes traditional a beloved classic — a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky and tangy cream cheese filling, and a vibrant sweet cherry topping — all in a perfectly handheld form. These little treats are ideal for parties, holidays, bake sales, birthdays, or anytime you crave cheesecake without the hassle of baking a full large cake. Their miniature size makes them easy to serve and even easier to enjoy.

This recipe brings you a dessert that looks bakery-quality while being surprisingly simple to prepare at home. With just a few ingredients and no complicated technique, you can make a whole batch of these adorable desserts. Whether you are an experienced baker or just learning your way around the kitchen, these cheesecake cupcakes will make you feel like a pastry professional.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn the best crust texture, how to achieve the perfect creamy filling, what baking temperature prevents cracking, and how to store and serve these cheesecake bites for maximum freshness. By the end, you’ll feel confident making this recipe anytime you want to impress.

Why You Will Love These Cheesecake Bites

These bite-sized treats combine all the classic flavors and textures of a New York-style cheesecake in a format that’s portable and party-friendly. Their smooth, creamy center meets the slight crunch of a sweet graham cracker crust. The cherry topping adds bright color and a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the cheesecake.

You’ll also love that each bite is pre-portioned, eliminating the mess of cutting a whole cake. You can make them ahead, store them easily, and decorate them however you like.

Some benefits include:

• No springform pan required
• Faster baking and cooling than a full cheesecake
• Ideal for sharing and serving guests
• Beautiful presentation
• Customizable toppings
• Freezer-friendly dessert

Whether served chilled on a summer day or added to your holiday dessert table, these cheesecake cupcakes are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1⁄2 cups crushed graham crackers
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⁄2 cup sour cream

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Tools Needed

• Standard muffin pan
• Cupcake liners (white or decorative)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spoon, spatula, and measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Place cupcake liners into a 12-cup muffin tin.

2. Mix crushed graham crackers and sugar in a bowl.

3. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.

4. Spoon about 1 1⁄2 tablespoons of crust mixture into each cupcake liner.

5. Press firmly down using the back of a spoon or bottom of a small jar to compress the crust.

6. Pre-bake at 325°F (163°C) for 5 minutes.

This helps set the crust before adding the filling so it stays crisp and stable.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar and mix until creamy without lumps.

3. Blend in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.

4. Stir in sour cream and vanilla until fully incorporated.

5. Do not over-mix, as too much air can cause cracks.

The batter should look silky and thick.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

1. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cheesecake batter over each crust until cups are about 3⁄4 full.

2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–18 minutes or until centers look set but still slightly wiggly.

3. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open to cool gradually for 10 minutes.

4. Then remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Gradual cooling prevents sinking or cracks.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping

1. Once cooled, spoon 3–5 over the top of each bite.

2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until fully set.

For best results, chill overnight. The flavor improves as they rest.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bites

• Always use room-temperature cream for a smooth batter.
• Do not over-bake. Removing them while slightly jiggly keeps them creamy.
• Chill thoroughly before serving for the best texture.
• Use high-quality pie filling for the best cherry flavor.
• If crust sticks to liners, spray lightly with baking spray before adding crust.
• You can double the recipe easily for large gatherings.

Variations and Flavor Ideas

This recipe is extremely versatile. Try swapping toppings for new flavors:

• Blueberry pie filling
• Strawberry topping
• Salted caramel and chocolate drizzle
• Lemon curd
• Fresh berries and whipped cream

You can even switch the crust:

• Oreo cookie crust for a chocolate twist
• Biscoff cookie crust for a spiced caramel flavor
• Shortbread crust for buttery richness

Make a dessert sampler with multiple toppings for parties.

How to Store Your Cheesecake Bites

These cheesecake cupcakes must be stored chilled:

• Store covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
• Keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

To freeze:

1. Freeze without cherry topping first until firm.

2. Wrap individually in plastic wrap.

3. Place in a freezer bag or container.

They can be frozen for 2 months. Add topping after thawing for perfect texture.

Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Cheesecake bites are ideal for preparing ahead:

• Bake the crust and cheesecake filling a day in advance.
• Add topping on the day of serving for freshness and visual appeal.

This makes party prep easier and stress-free.

Presentation Tips

To make these look even more luxurious:

• Use decorative cupcake liners.
• Add a small dollop of whipped cream under the cherries for height.
• Sprinkle graham crumbs around the edge before serving.
• Display on a tiered tray or mirrored dessert platter.

Their glossy red cherry topping adds an eye-catching shine that makes them photogenic and irresistible.

Nutrition Information

(Estimated per cupcake)

• Calories: ~195
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 3g