Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites (Printer-Friendly Version)

Velvety cheesecake bites with fresh strawberries and a crispy strawberry cereal coating for a perfect sweet bite.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Coating

01 - 1 cup crushed strawberry-flavored cereal
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

→ Filling

04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1/4 cup sour cream
08 - 1/3 cup heavy cream
09 - 2 tablespoons strawberry puree or jam

→ Garnish

10 - Chopped fresh strawberries, for topping
11 - Extra strawberry cereal crunch, for decoration

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Combine crushed strawberry cereal, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until mixture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar using a hand mixer until smooth and light, then add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
03 - Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl at high speed until stiff peaks form, ensuring a fluffy yet stable texture.
04 - Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, then swirl in sour cream and strawberry puree or jam until evenly blended and uniformly pink.
05 - Scoop the filling using a small cookie scoop or spoon and roll into walnut-sized balls, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
06 - Roll each cheesecake ball in the prepared coating mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
07 - Refrigerate the coated bites on the baking sheet for at least 60 minutes until firm to the touch.
08 - Before serving, top bites with chopped fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of extra strawberry cereal for color and texture.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling and chill bites thoroughly to maintain their shape during handling.
02 - For best texture, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form to achieve lightness without collapse.