These Caramel Swirl Cheesecake Bites are rich, creamy, and perfectly portioned treats with a buttery crust and a beautiful ribbon of caramel baked right in. They are ideal for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a small but indulgent dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesecake bites deliver all the satisfaction of a classic cheesecake in miniature form. The caramel swirl adds a luxurious touch, the texture is smooth and velvety, and the individual portions make serving easy and elegant. They store wonderfully and are simple enough for beginners while impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
For the Caramel Swirl
1/3 cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully combined.
Press about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner, flattening firmly with the back of a spoon.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is silky and smooth.
Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly over the crusts, filling each liner nearly to the top.
Warm the caramel sauce slightly if too thick, then add a small dollop on top of each cheesecake.
Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake batter.
Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the centers are just set and slightly wobbly.
Allow the bites to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 cheesecake bites.
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Bake time: 16–18 minutes
Chill time: at least 2 hours
Variations
Salted Caramel: Mix a pinch of flaky sea salt into the caramel before swirling.
Chocolate Caramel: Drizzle melted chocolate on top before chilling.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped almonds or pecans over the caramel swirl.
Spiced Crust: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the graham cracker crust for warm flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These bites are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating.
FAQs
How do I prevent cracks in cheesecake bites?
Avoid overmixing the batter and bake just until set to prevent cracking.
Can I make these without muffin liners?
Yes, but use a greased silicone muffin pan to ensure easy removal.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or chocolate cookie crumbs work well.
Do I need to warm the caramel before swirling?
If the caramel is thick, warming it slightly makes swirling easier.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat provides the best texture, but low-fat can work with a slightly softer result.
How long should the cheesecake bites chill?
At least 2 hours, but overnight yields the best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two muffin tins.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely—these cheesecake bites are perfect for making 1–2 days ahead.
What if my caramel sinks?
This can happen if the batter is too thin; make sure your caramel is thick enough to sit on top before swirling.
Can I add toppings after baking?
Yes, once chilled, you can drizzle extra caramel or add whipped cream.
Conclusion
These Caramel Swirl Cheesecake Bites offer all the indulgence of a traditional cheesecake in a perfectly portioned, irresistible form. Easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and deliciously creamy, they’re sure to become a go-to dessert for gatherings or personal treats. Enjoy every rich, caramel-kissed bite.
These Caramel Swirl Cheesecake Bites are mini cheesecakes with a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, creamy filling swirled with luscious caramel. Perfectly portioned and ideal for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully combined.
Press about 1 tablespoon of crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner, flattening firmly with the back of a spoon.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is silky and smooth.
Spoon the cheesecake batter evenly over the crusts, filling each liner nearly to the top.
Warm the caramel sauce slightly if too thick, then add a small dollop on top of each cheesecake.
Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake batter.
Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the centers are just set and slightly wobbly.
Allow the bites to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter to avoid cracks.
Chill overnight for best texture.
Use thick caramel sauce for better swirling results.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
