Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites

Christmas is a season of joy, indulgence, and culinary creativity. Nothing embodies the holiday spirit better than these festive and irresistible Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites. With their striking red velvet base, creamy cheesecake filling, and a touch of festive decoration, these bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as gifts for loved ones. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they capture the magic of Christmas in every bite!

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Base:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Crushed candy canes (optional)
• Holiday sprinkles
• White chocolate drizzle

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir in the white vinegar. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Red Velvet Base

1. Pour the red velvet batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes to slightly firm it up, making it easier to handle.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Bites

1. Once the red velvet base is cooled, use a small round cutter (about 1.5 inches in diameter) to cut out bite-sized circles.
2. Place a dollop of the cheesecake filling on top of each red velvet circle, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Decorate the Cheesecake Bites

1. Melt white chocolate and drizzle it over the cheesecake-topped bites for a touch of elegance.
2. Garnish with crushed candy canes or holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive touch.

Variation

• Chocolate Twist: Substitute the red velvet base with a chocolate cake base for a deeper cocoa flavor.
• Minty Delight: Add ¼ tsp peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a minty holiday twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan Version: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Cooking Notes

• Be sure to let the red velvet base cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling; otherwise, the filling may melt.
• Using gel food coloring will give a more vibrant red hue compared to liquid food coloring.
• Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange these bites on a holiday platter with sprigs of fresh mint or rosemary for a decorative touch.
• Serve alongside a mug of hot cocoa or a glass of chilled eggnog for a cozy Christmas treat.
• Wrap them individually in festive wrappers to gift as edible presents.

Tips

1. Chill the cheesecake filling before use to make it firmer and easier to pipe or spread.
2. Use a sharp-edged cookie cutter to ensure clean cuts when shaping the red velvet base.
3. For an extra festive flair, mix green food coloring into some of the white chocolate drizzle.
4. To avoid sticking, dip the cookie cutter in powdered sugar before each cut.
5. Double the recipe if making these for a large crowd; they disappear quickly!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 38 minutes

Nutritional Information (per bite, approximate)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 5g

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the red velvet base and cheesecake filling a day in advance. Assemble and decorate the bites on the day you plan to serve them.

Q: Can I freeze these bites?
Absolutely! Place the fully assembled bites in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I use a different shape cutter?
Certainly! Try star or heart-shaped cutters to add a creative touch to your bites.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing ½ cup milk with 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Conclusion

Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are the perfect blend of festive flavors and eye-catching presentation. With their velvety texture and creamy filling, these treats are guaranteed to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a fun baking project, these bites deliver the joy of Christmas in every mouthful. Whip up a batch, and let the holiday cheer begin!