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Red velvet cheesecake bites offer the ideal sweet treat for parties and special occasions. With a creamy cheesecake center rolled in rich red velvet cake crumbs, these little desserts bring together the best of two classics. If you love indulgent flavor but do not want to commit to a whole slice of cake, this recipe delivers beautifully portioned bites that are festive, simple, and endlessly snackable.
The first time I made these, they disappeared before the party even started. Even my family members who say they do not love cheesecake always reach for these first.
Ingredients
- Red velvet cake mix: opt for your favorite boxed variety for a reliable base with deep color and cocoa flavor
- Eggs, oil, and water: as called for on the cake mix box quality eggs and fresh oil make a difference in taste and texture
- Cream cheese: use blocks for richness and always soften fully for smooth mixing
- Confectioners sugar: gives the filling light sweetness and creamy texture sift for lump-free results
- Heavy cream: adds silkiness and helps the filling whip up fluffy
- Pure vanilla extract: brings the filling together with aromatic warmth look for real extract not imitation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Red Velvet Cake:
- Mix and bake the cake batter based on the package instructions using a muffin pan lined with paper liners. Bake at 350 degrees until a tester shows the cupcakes are done. Cool them fully to room temperature so crumbs are not sticky.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sifted confectioners sugar using a hand mixer. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy with no lumps. Add in the heavy cream and vanilla, then whip until stiff peaks form so the filling holds its shape when scooped.
- Scoop the Cheesecake Centers:
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the cheesecake mixture into neat balls about one inch wide. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour so the filling firms up and is easy to handle.
- Prepare Red Velvet Crumbs:
- Take four of your cooled cupcakes and break them up using your fingers or a fork until you have fine crumbs. Set aside on a plate for rolling.
- Coat with Cake Crumbs:
- Roll each chilled cheesecake ball in the red velvet crumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere all over. Place finished bites back on the baking sheet and keep them chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
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Cream cheese is always my favorite part of any dessert. Watching my nieces sneak an extra cheesecake ball is now a cherished holiday memory I look forward to repeating.
Storage Tips
Store these cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, lay the bites in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge before serving. I always like to stash a few for late-night cravings.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are short on boxed red velvet cake, homemade works beautifully. For a slightly tangier filling, swap in mascarpone for half the cream cheese. You can also use gluten-free cake mix and dairy-free cream cheese for allergy-friendly versions.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesecake bites on a cake stand or festive platter for dessert buffets. They pair nicely with coffee or champagne. For a playful twist, drizzle with melted white chocolate or serve with raspberry coulis for dipping.
Red Velvet History
Red velvet cake’s signature color originally came from a chemical reaction between acidic vinegar and cocoa. Today, food coloring gives the deep hue. The combination of chocolate and tangy cream cheese has strong Southern roots and always brings a sense of celebration to the table.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade red velvet cake?
Yes! Homemade red velvet cake works wonderfully here and brings extra flavor, though boxed cake is quick and tasty, too.
- → How should I store the cheesecake bites?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month for later enjoyment.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. These bites keep well, so you can prepare them in advance and chill or freeze until serving.
- → What’s the best way to coat the cheesecake balls?
Gently roll each chilled ball in fine red velvet cake crumbs for even coating and the perfect finishing touch.
- → Are these suitable for parties or gifting?
Definitely! Their vibrant color, creamy texture, and bite-sized shape make them ideal for entertaining or sharing.