Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites: How to Make 8 Perfect Mini Treats

A Sprinkle of Holiday Cheer (and Cheesecake!)

Remember that special, cozy feeling when the scent of holiday spices fills the air, and Christmas lights twinkle, promising joy and togetherness? There’s something truly magical about creating delicious treats for loved ones during this time of year. But what if you could take that magic, combine it with a universally adored dessert, and shape it into something as delightful as a Christmas tree?

Why Make These Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites?

These aren’t just any cheesecake bites; they’re tiny, festive works of art! Here’s why they’ll become your new holiday go-to:

• Irresistibly Cute: Their charming Christmas tree shape makes them an instant crowd-pleaser and a delightful centerpiece for any holiday spread.
• Decadently Delicious: All the creamy, tangy goodness of classic cheesecake in a convenient, bite-sized package.
• Easy to Make: Don’t let their intricate appearance fool you; these are surprisingly simple to whip up, even for novice bakers.
• Perfect for Parties: Individual portions mean no messy slicing, making them ideal for mingling and easy serving at holiday gatherings.
• Customizable: A fantastic canvas for your creative decorating ideas, from sprinkles to edible glitter.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance to reduce holiday stress, freeing up more time for festive fun.

How to Make Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

This holiday season, let’s embark on a sweet adventure that will not only tantalize taste buds but also add an extra sparkle to your festive gatherings. Forget the stress of elaborate desserts; we’re crafting something both adorable and irresistibly delicious: Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites. Get ready to impress your guests, delight your family, and create lasting memories, one delicious bite at a time. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the most wonderful time of the year.

Ingredients of: Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted unsalted butter

For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Large egg
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon juice (optional, for a brighter flavor)

For the Festive Decoration

• Green food coloring (gel for vibrant color)
• White melting chocolate or white chocolate chips
• Red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, or small edible pearls
• Optional: Star-shaped sprinkles for the “top of the tree”

Directions of: Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a mini muffin tin or a similar small mold if not using a cookie cutter later. Alternatively, if using a cookie cutter post-baking, create a thin, even layer on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for a short period, then remove and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Gently fold in the green food coloring until your desired shade of festive green is achieved.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Spoon or pipe the green cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. If using a baking sheet for cutting later, spread the mixture evenly over the crust layer.
2. Bake until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside to prevent cracking.
4. Once completely cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow them to firm up.

Step 4: Shape and Decorate Your Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

1. Once thoroughly chilled, if baked in a sheet, use a small Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter to carefully cut out your cheesecake bites. Dip the cutter in warm water if needed for clean cuts.
2. Melt the white melting chocolate according to package directions.
3. Dip the tops of the Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites into the melted white chocolate or drizzle it over them.
4. Immediately adorn with sprinkles, edible glitter, and star sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
5. Return to the refrigerator for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

How to Serve Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

These individual portions are perfect for mingling and easy serving at holiday gatherings. They make a delightful centerpiece for any holiday spread.

How to Store Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

Store any leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 weeks. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Tips to Make Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked cheesecake can be dry and crack. Look for a slight jiggle in the center.
• Chilling is Key: Adequate chilling time ensures the cheesecake bites are firm enough to cut and handle.
• Gel Food Coloring: Opt for gel food coloring over liquid for a more vibrant, concentrated green without altering the batter consistency too much.

Variation

Creative Toppings and Dips

• Powdered Sugar “Snow”: A light dusting for a wintry look.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: For a “chocolate chip tree” effect.
• Fresh Berries: A vibrant burst of color and freshness.
• Caramel Drizzle: For those who love a sweet and sticky finish.
• DIY Edible Ornaments: Use small candied fruit pieces or small candies.

Flavorful Twists on Your Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

• Peppermint Delight: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a festive zing.
• Gingerbread Crust: Substitute gingersnap crumbs for graham cracker crumbs in the crust.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate cheesecake base.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lime zest into the filling for an extra bright flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make the **Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites** ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheesecake bites are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare them up to 2-3 days ahead of your event. Keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and avoid drying out.

2. What if I don’t have a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter?

No problem! You can bake the cheesecake in individual mini muffin tins or even a square baking dish and then cut them into squares or triangles once chilled. While they won’t be tree-shaped, they’ll still be delicious and festive!

3. How do I get a vibrant green color for my **Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites**?

For the best color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid. Gel colors are more concentrated and won’t thin out your cheesecake batter. Start with a few drops and add more until you reach your desired shade of festive green.

Classic Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites

These festive Classic Christmas Tree Shaped Cheesecake Bites feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy, vibrant green cheesecake filling, and a delightful white chocolate and sprinkle decoration, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings 16 bites

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium bowl
• Electric mixer
• Large bowl
• Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter

Ingredients

  

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 packages cream cheese 8-ounce, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice optional

For the Festive Decoration:

• Green gel food coloring
• 4 ounces white melting chocolate or white chocolate chips
• Red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, or small edible pearls
• Star-shaped sprinkles Optional, for the 'top of the tree'

Instructions

 

Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter; press into a thin layer on the sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool.

Mix the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and ¾ cup sugar until smooth. Add egg, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice; beat on low until just combined. Gently fold in green gel food coloring to achieve your desired shade.

Bake the Cheesecake:

• Evenly spread the green cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for 18-22 minutes until set with a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool gradually for 15-20 minutes to prevent cracking. Once completely cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to firm up.

Shape and Decorate:

• Once thoroughly chilled, use a small Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cheesecake bites from the slab, dipping the cutter in warm water if needed. Melt white chocolate and dip the tops of the bites or drizzle in a zig-zag pattern.
• Immediately adorn with red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, pearls, and star sprinkles before the chocolate sets. Return the decorated bites to the refrigerator for a few minutes to harden the chocolate completely, then serve chilled.

Notes

For best results and to prevent cracking, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating. Ensure thorough chilling for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for easy cutting and a firm texture.