Description
These Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Bites are bite-sized indulgences featuring a smooth and creamy chocolate cheesecake center coated in luscious semi-sweet chocolate and drizzled with rich caramel sauce. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or a decadent treat, these no-bake cheesecake bites combine the delightful flavors of chocolate and caramel in a convenient, freeze-friendly format.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for a rich chocolate flavor)
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer taste)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (to help the chocolate melt smoothly)
Caramel Drizzle
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. Using an electric mixer will give the best, lump-free results.
- Form the Bites: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the cheesecake mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. To make this easier, chill the mixture for about 10 minutes beforehand.
- Chill the Cheesecake Balls: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the bites to firm up, making them easier to dip.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Coat the Cheesecake Bites: Remove the cheesecake balls from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork to assist with dipping and let excess chocolate drip off. Place coated bites back onto the parchment-lined tray.
- Drizzle with Caramel: Once all bites are coated in chocolate, use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the top for a decorative and flavorful finish.
- Final Chill: Return the coated and drizzled bites to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to set the chocolate and caramel before serving.
Notes
- Chilling the cheesecake mixture before forming balls helps with easier shaping and reduces sticking.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Store these bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- If caramel sauce is too thick, warm slightly before drizzling for easier application.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Bites, no-bake cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake bites, caramel drizzle dessert, party treats, bite-sized desserts
