π Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
π§ Ingredients:
For the Filling:
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8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)
For the Strawberries:
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20β25 large fresh strawberries, washed and hulled (tops cut off and a bit hollowed out)
For the Topping:
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1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
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1 tbsp butter, melted
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Optional: extra sugar (1 tsp) or cinnamon (pinch)
π©βπ³ Instructions:
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Prep the strawberries:
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Cut the tops off the strawberries and hollow out a small section of the center using a paring knife or a melon baller.
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Make the filling:
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In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth and fluffy.
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Fill the strawberries:
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Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into each hollowed-out strawberry.
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Top with graham cracker crumbs:
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Mix graham crumbs with melted butter (and sugar/cinnamon if using).
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Sprinkle or dip the tops of the filled strawberries in the mixture.
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Chill:
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Refrigerate for 20β30 minutes to firm up before serving.
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π Tips:
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Want to be fancy? Drizzle with melted chocolate or a balsamic glaze.
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For extra stability, cut a small slice off the bottom of each strawberry so they stand up.
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Can be made a few hours aheadβjust keep them chilled.
Let me know if you want a keto, vegan, or gluten-free version!