Cheesecake Bites with Diploma Picks (Printable Version)

Creamy mini cheesecakes with graham crust and fresh berry topping served with festive diploma picks.

# What You Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 2 tablespoons sour cream

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries, diced
10 - 2 tablespoons fruit preserves, optional

→ Decoration

11 - Diploma picks for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 24-cup mini muffin pan with paper liners.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly distributed.
03 - Spoon 1 teaspoon of crust mixture into each liner and press down firmly with the back of a spoon.
04 - Bake crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
05 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
06 - Add egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
07 - Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling over each cooled crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
08 - Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
09 - Remove from oven and allow cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
10 - Carefully transfer cooled cheesecakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
11 - Chill cheesecakes in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
12 - Top each cheesecake bite with fresh berries. Optionally, warm fruit preserves and brush lightly over berries for enhanced shine.
13 - Insert diploma picks into each cheesecake bite immediately before serving for festive presentation.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfectly portioned mini cheesecakes that are easy to grab and enjoy
  • Buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect sweet and crunchy base
  • Creamy, tangy filling with just the right amount of sweetness
  • Fresh berries add a burst of color and natural fruity flavor
  • Festive diploma picks make them ideal for graduation parties and celebrations
  • Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly
  • Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for easy party prep
02 -
  • Use room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest, lump-free filling
  • Press the crust firmly into the liners to keep it from crumbling
  • Don't overbake—centers should be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven
  • Chill for at least one hour, or overnight for best texture
  • Pat berries dry before topping to avoid excess moisture
  • Warm fruit preserves make a beautiful glossy finish on the berries
  • Insert diploma picks just before serving to keep them looking crisp and festive
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