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Firecracker Cheesecake Bites

Delicious no-bake dessert cups filled with creamy cheesecake and a chocolate-kissed graham cracker crust topped with festive red, white, and blue sprinkles.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 bites
Course: Dessert, Party Treat
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 8 sheets gluten-free graham cracker sheets About 1 cup of crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar For the crust
For the Filling
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened At room temperature
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar For the filling
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped cream Store-bought or homemade
For the Topping
  • 3 tablespoons red, white, and blue sprinkles For garnish

Method
 

Make the Graham Cracker Crust
  1. Break the gluten-free graham cracker sheets into rough pieces and drop them into a food processor with cocoa powder and granulated sugar. Pulse for 20-25 seconds.
  2. Transfer the crumb mixture to a bowl, pour in the melted butter, and stir until crumb mixture is evenly coated.
  3. Spoon the crust mixture into 12 cups and press down firmly. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
  1. Beat softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth, about 90 seconds.
  2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat for another 60 seconds.
  3. Gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula until fully combined without losing air.
Layer the Bites
  1. Spoon cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in each cup. Optionally, create layers with crust and filling.
  2. Smooth the top surface of each cup with a spatula.
Add the Sprinkles
  1. Scatter red, white, and blue sprinkles over the top of each filled cup.
Chill and Serve
  1. Refrigerate the filled cups for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm.

Notes

These bites can be made a day ahead for better flavor. Be sure to soften cream cheese properly to avoid lumps.