These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: rich red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake. Bite-sized, luscious, and visually striking, they’re perfect for holidays, parties, or when I just want a pop of sweetness without going overboard. With a tender red velvet base wrapped around a smooth cheesecake center, every bite offers the ultimate indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these bites strike a balance between tangy cheesecake and the mild cocoa flavor of red velvet. They’re a fun twist on traditional desserts and don’t require a fork or plate, making them a favorite for gatherings. Whether I’m making them for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or just a cozy weekend treat, they always disappear fast. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead prep.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Red velvet cake mix
- Eggs
- Butter (melted)
- White chocolate or almond bark (for coating, optional)
- Sprinkles or crushed cookies (optional topping)
Directions
- I start by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- I mix softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until it’s creamy and smooth.
- Then, I chill the cheesecake filling for about 30 minutes to make it easier to scoop.
- In a separate bowl, I prepare the red velvet cake dough by combining the cake mix with eggs and melted butter until a thick dough forms.
- I scoop out small amounts of dough and flatten them in my hand, placing a bit of cheesecake filling in the center.
- I carefully wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a ball.
- After placing all the bites on the baking sheet, I bake them just until they’re set.
- Once cooled, I optionally dip them in melted white chocolate and decorate with sprinkles or cookie crumbs.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour
Variations
- I sometimes use chocolate cake mix instead of red velvet for a different flavor combo.
- If I want extra indulgence, I drizzle them with dark chocolate instead of white.
- For a festive touch, I mix in peppermint extract or crushed candy canes during the holidays.
- I’ve even added mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake center for added texture.
- To make them gluten-free, I use a gluten-free cake mix.
storage/reheating
I store leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze really well — I just lay them out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When I want one, I let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. I don’t usually reheat them since they’re best chilled or at room temp.
FAQs
How do I keep the cheesecake filling from leaking out?
I make sure to fully seal the dough around the filling and chill the filling so it’s firm before wrapping.
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely, I often make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer.
Can I use homemade red velvet cake batter?
Yes, but I make sure it’s thick enough to mold around the filling. A box mix tends to be more predictable for texture.
Do I have to dip them in chocolate?
Not at all — I often skip the dip when I want something a little lighter or quicker.
What’s the best way to get even-sized bites?
I use a small cookie scoop to portion both the dough and the cheesecake filling — it keeps everything consistent.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites are as delicious as they are pretty. I love how they combine the richness of red velvet with the tangy creaminess of cheesecake, all in one little package. Whether I’m making them for a celebration or just to treat myself, they never fail to impress. Give them a try and see just how irresistible they are!
PrintRed Velvet Cheesecake Bites
Bite-sized treats combining red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake filling, perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet indulgence anytime. Optional white chocolate coating and sprinkles make them festive and fun.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 bites
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box red velvet cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 8 oz white chocolate or almond bark (optional, for coating)
- Sprinkles or crushed cookies (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Chill the mixture for 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, and melted butter until a thick dough forms.
- Scoop out a small amount of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a small spoonful of chilled cheesecake filling in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until just set.
- Let the bites cool completely on a wire rack.
- Optional: Dip the cooled bites in melted white chocolate or almond bark and decorate with sprinkles or crushed cookies.
Notes
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized bites.
- Chill the cheesecake mixture for easier handling.
- Ensure dough fully seals the filling to avoid leaks.
- Skip the chocolate dip for a quicker or lighter option.
- Store chilled and serve at room temperature or cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
