Save A show-stopping, interactive dessert board featuring creamy cheesecake bites and an array of delicious toppings for a customizable sweet experience.
The first time I made this deconstructed dessert board was for a birthday celebration. Watching friends and family choose their favorite toppings and get creative made dessert so much more interactive and memorable!
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
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla and Creams:
- Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream; continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.
- Form Cheesecake Balls:
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, form the cheesecake mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Coat with Graham Crackers:
- Roll half of the balls in graham cracker crumbs to coat; leave the rest plain for variety.
- Arrange Bites:
- Arrange cheesecake bites on a large serving board or platter.
- Prepare Toppings:
- Neatly arrange all toppings in small bowls or directly on the board around the cheesecake bites.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to dip, drizzle, and top their cheesecake bites as desired.
Save Setting the board on the coffee table, everyone gathered around and shared their own cheesecake creations, which always sparks laughter and new flavor combinations in our house!
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, and other allergens depending on topping choices. Always double-check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 385, Total Fat: 26 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 5 g
Save Let guests get creative with toppings for a dessert centerpiece that's fun and crowd-pleasing. It's sure to spark smiles and conversation!
Common Questions
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake filling?
Ensure cream cheese is softened and beat thoroughly with sugar and creams to reach a light, fluffy texture before shaping.
- → Can I prepare the bites ahead of time?
Yes, chill cheesecake bites for up to a day before serving; add toppings fresh for best presentation and flavor.
- → What are some topping alternatives?
Try chopped nuts, dried fruits, salted caramel, chocolate sauce, cookies, or fresh berries for varied taste and texture.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarian diets?
This board uses all vegetarian ingredients. Always confirm specific toppings for individual dietary needs.
- → How do I serve the dessert board?
Arrange bites and toppings attractively. Let guests dip, drizzle, and customize their own combinations for an interactive treat.
- → Can the cheesecake base be flavored?
Add lemon zest, liqueur, or flavor extracts to the cream cheese mix to easily create new taste profiles.