Pin It A show-stopping, interactive dessert board featuring creamy cheesecake bites and an array of delicious toppings for a customizable sweet experience.
I first put together a deconstructed dessert board for my family after a holiday dinner and everyone loved decorating their cheesecake bites with their favorite toppings. It's become a tradition we all look forward to.
Ingredients
- Cheesecake Bites: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (120 g) graham cracker crumbs
- Toppings: 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, sliced, 1 cup (125 g) fresh blueberries, 1 cup (150 g) raspberries, 1/2 cup (120 ml) salted caramel sauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) chocolate ganache or hot fudge, 1/2 cup (80 g) crushed Oreos, 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped toasted pecans, 1/2 cup (60 g) mini chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (60 g) toasted coconut flakes, 1/4 cup (40 g) rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings:
- Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream then continue beating until creamy and well-combined.
- Form Bites:
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, shape the cheesecake mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Coat with Crumbs:
- Roll half the cheesecake balls in graham cracker crumbs to coat; leave the rest plain.
- Arrange on Board:
- Place cheesecake bites neatly on a large serving board or platter.
- Add Toppings:
- Organize toppings in small bowls or around the bites directly on the board.
- Serve:
- Invite guests to dip, drizzle, and top the cheesecake bites as desired.
Pin It The first time my kids made their own dessert combinations, we laughed at some of their wild choices but it was so much fun to watch everyone's creativity shine. This board always brings out smiles and sweet stories around our table.
Required Tools
Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, mixing bowls, cookie scoop or tablespoon, serving platter or board, small bowls for toppings
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream), gluten (graham crackers, Oreos), and nuts (pecans). May contain soy (chocolate), coconut, or other allergens depending on topping choices. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 385 calories, 26 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Pin It This interactive dessert board is sure to be a crowd favorite for any occasion. Set it out and watch your guests create their own sweet masterpiece.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the cheesecake bites creamy?
Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until very smooth for a creamy texture.
- → Can I prepare this board ahead of time?
Yes, chill the bites for 30 minutes in advance and arrange toppings before serving for best freshness.
- → What are good topping options?
Fresh fruits, sauces like caramel or chocolate, cookies, nuts, coconut flakes, and colorful sprinkles are excellent choices.
- → Is there a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free cookies or biscuits instead of graham cracker crumbs for coating the cheesecake bites.
- → What drinks pair well with this dessert board?
Coffee, dessert wines, and sparkling beverages complement the sweet, creamy flavors of the bites and toppings.
- → Are there optional flavor additions?
Add lemon zest or a splash of liqueur to the cheesecake base for an exciting flavor twist.