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Perfect Mini Graduation Cheesecake Bites Easy Festive Diploma Recipe

mini graduation cheesecake bites - featured image

These mini cheesecake bites are a quick, easy, and festive dessert perfect for graduations and parties, featuring a creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust topped with cute diploma toppers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
  • 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream
  • Miniature rolled paper scrolls (DIY or store-bought)
  • Thin ribbon or twine to tie the scrolls
  • Optional: edible glitter or small sugar stars

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line your mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand and holds together when pinched.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup using the back of a spoon or a small glass bottom.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined, mixing gently.
  5. Fill each crust-lined cup with cheesecake batter about 2/3 full. Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped for neatness.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until edges are set but centers still jiggle slightly.
  7. Cool the cheesecake bites in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
  8. Add festive diploma toppers just before serving by tying miniature paper scrolls with ribbon or twine and placing one on each cheesecake bite.

Notes

Bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the filling to prevent cracks. Press crust firmly to avoid crumbly bites. Use the jiggle test to check doneness. Chill thoroughly for best texture. Can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the fridge. Freeze up to 2 months, thaw overnight before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini cheesecake bites, graduation dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, party dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, festive dessert