Description
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bites are delightful mini treats combining creamy cheesecake, rich peanut butter, and sweet jelly, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for parties or as a sweet snack, they offer a nostalgic flavor in a convenient bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry jelly or your favorite jelly
- Chopped peanuts or crushed graham crackers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined or greased mini muffin pan to create an even crust layer.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and sugar, mixing until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Assemble the bites: Spoon the cheesecake filling over each crust in the mini muffin pan, filling them about three-quarters full. Take a small spoonful of jelly and place it on top of each cheesecake-filled cup. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the jelly into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the mini muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Avoid overbaking to keep a creamy texture.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake bites from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to set fully.
- Serve: Once chilled, gently remove the cheesecake bites from the pan. Optionally, sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed graham crackers on top for added texture and garnish. Serve cold and enjoy these rich, creamy, and sweet treats!
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Feel free to experiment with different jelly flavors like grape or raspberry.
- Mini muffin pans work best for bite-sized portions, but a standard muffin tin can be used for larger servings.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
