Indulge in the perfect harmony of sweet and tangy with these Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites! These delightful treats feature a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling nestled in a buttery crust, topped with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Perfect for any occasion, from tea parties to holiday gatherings, these bites are easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you every step of the way to ensure your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites turn out perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, requiring no special skills or complex techniques.
- Burst of Flavor: The combination of buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh raspberries creates a balanced dessert that is both sweet and tangy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bite-sized treats are versatile, making them ideal for parties, brunches, or even a sweet snack to enjoy with coffee.
- Customizable: You can easily switch out the raspberries for other berries or add a drizzle of chocolate to personalize the flavor profile.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves bite-sized desserts, and these will disappear quickly at any gathering!
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Serving size: 1 bite
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 6 g
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the topping:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing it down firmly to create a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and egg, and mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling about two-thirds full. Gently press one fresh raspberry into the center of each filled cup.
- Bake the Bites: Return the tin to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cream cheese filling is set and slightly puffed. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Dust: Transfer the bites to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Ingredient Background
- Raspberries: Raspberries add a natural tang and sweetness, along with a vibrant color that makes these bites visually appealing. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they’re as nutritious as they are delicious.
- Cream Cheese: A classic ingredient in many desserts, cream cheese lends a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberries.
- Butter: Using cold butter in the crust ensures a flaky and buttery texture that complements the soft filling.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure to the crust, ensuring it holds up well when baked.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cream cheese filling, adding warmth and sweetness.
Technique Tips
- Cold Butter for the Crust: Always use cold butter when making the crust. This helps create a crumbly texture that bakes into a perfectly tender base.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened and the egg is at room temperature for a smoother filling that mixes easily.
- Don’t Overfill the Cups: Filling the cups only two-thirds full prevents overflow and ensures the bites bake evenly.
- Chill Before Serving: These bites taste even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, as the flavors meld beautifully.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Mini Tarts: Instead of using a mini muffin tin, press the crust into tart molds for an elegant dessert.
- Fruit Variety: Swap raspberries for blueberries, blackberries, or even sliced strawberries for a different flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the bites for a decorative touch.
- Nut Garnish: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use a Food Processor: If you prefer, use a food processor to mix the crust ingredients for quicker results.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Raspberries: While fresh raspberries are ideal, frozen raspberries can also be used. Just thaw and pat them dry before using.
- Double the Recipe: These bites disappear fast! Consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a large group.
- Test for Doneness: The cream cheese filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you remove the bites from the oven.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Raspberry Bites: Add 1 tsp of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Raspberry Bites: Mix 2 tbsp of cocoa powder into the crust for a chocolatey base.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the sugar content.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These bites freeze well! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: While these are best served chilled, you can warm them slightly in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Substitute regular cream cheese with a low-fat version to reduce the fat content.
- Natural Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Add Chia Seeds: Mix in 1 tbsp of chia seeds with the filling for added nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Afternoon Tea: Serve these bites alongside hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Holiday Platters: Include them on dessert platters with cookies and truffles for a festive presentation.
- Baby Showers or Bridal Showers: Their dainty size and elegant appearance make them a hit at showers.
- Picnics: Pack them as a portable dessert for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
Special Equipment
- Mini Muffin Tin: Essential for creating the perfect bite-sized portions.
- Pastry Cutter or Food Processor: For easily cutting the butter into the crust mixture.
- Electric Mixer: Makes mixing the cream cheese filling quick and smooth.
- Wire Rack: Ideal for cooling the bites evenly after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin?
Yes, but the baking time may need to be adjusted. Larger bites will take slightly longer to bake, so keep an eye on them.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bites can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. What can I use if I don’t have fresh raspberries?
You can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. Alternatively, try other fruits like blueberries or chopped strawberries.
4. Can I use a pre-made crust?
Yes, pre-made pie crust can be pressed into the muffin cups for a quick shortcut, though the homemade crust provides better flavor and texture.
5. How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the tin?
Using paper liners or greasing the tin thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray will help prevent sticking.
6. Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
7. How do I ensure the filling doesn’t crack while baking?
Avoid overmixing the filling and do not overbake. The filling should still be slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven.
8. Can I add toppings besides powdered sugar?
Of course! Whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a small dollop of fruit preserves can make a great addition.
Conclusion
These Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are a must-try dessert that’s easy to make, visually stunning, and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re planning a special event or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. With their creamy filling, fresh raspberries, and buttery crust, these bites deliver the perfect combination of flavors in every bite. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and whip up a batch today to enjoy these delectable treats!
Print
Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the topping:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing it down firmly to create a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and egg, and mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling about two-thirds full. Gently press one fresh raspberry into the center of each filled cup.
- Bake the Bites: Return the tin to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cream cheese filling is set and slightly puffed. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Dust: Transfer the bites to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g