Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Crust Base
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are uniformly moistened and resemble wet sand. Set aside.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until fully incorporated, then increase speed and beat until smooth and thick, about 2 minutes.
- If using, add the lemon juice and beat just until combined.
- Spoon the graham cracker crumb mixture into the cream cheese filling. Mix on low speed or fold gently with a spatula until the crumbs are evenly distributed. The mixture will be very thick and sturdy, like dense cookie dough.
Chill and Shape
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This makes the mixture firm enough to roll.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), scoop portions of the chilled mixture and quickly roll them into smooth, compact balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. This ensures the balls are solid and cold, which helps the chocolate set quickly when dipping.
Melt and Dip
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. If the chocolate is too thick, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to reach a smooth, dip-able consistency.
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip one frozen cheesecake ball at a time into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's completely coated. Tap off excess chocolate gently and place the dipped bite back on the parchment paper.
- Immediately sprinkle the top with a generous amount of red and green Christmas sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Final Set
- Return the finished cheesecake bites to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to completely set the chocolate shell before serving.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 2gFat: 7g
Notes
Make ahead tip: You can prepare the cheesecake balls and freeze them up to 2 days in advance. Just dip and decorate on the day of serving. For a festive variation, fold crushed candy canes into the filling for peppermint cheesecake bites, or use crushed gingersnaps instead of graham crackers for a gingerbread twist.
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