Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, then you are in for a treat! These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a creamy cheesecake filling nestled inside a fluffy lemon cake exterior, all coated in a sweet candy melt shell, these bites are perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday parties. The best part? They use simple ingredients, including lemon cake mix, dried blueberries, and candy melts, making them a breeze to whip up.
What Makes This Recipe Special
These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites stand out for several reasons. First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The tartness of lemon perfectly balances with the sweetness of dried blueberries, creating a unique taste sensation that will have everyone reaching for more. Additionally, the use of cake mix streamlines the baking process, allowing you to create delicious bites in no time. With a rich cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth, these bites are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredient List
- 15 ounces lemon cake mix – This serves as the base for our cheesecake bites, providing a sweet and zesty flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – The creamy filling that gives these bites their rich texture.
- 3.5 ounces dried blueberries – Adds a burst of natural sweetness and flavor.
- 12 ounces yellow candy melts – Used for coating the cheesecake bites, adding a colorful and sweet shell.
- 4 ounces white almond bark – This enhances the coating and provides a lovely contrast to the yellow candy melts.
Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients smoothly.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – To whip the cream cheese until it’s perfectly creamy.
- Baking sheet – To set the cheesecake bites on as they cool.
- Wax paper or parchment paper – A non-stick surface for easy removal of the bites.
- Microwave-safe bowl – For melting the candy melts and almond bark.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Cake Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix with the required ingredients per the package instructions. Usually, this involves adding water, oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Step 2: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake according to the package instructions. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy. Gently fold in the dried blueberries until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Form the Bites
Once the cake has cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl. Add the cream cheese mixture to the crumbled cake and mix until well combined. Using your hands, form small bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.
Step 5: Freeze the Bites
Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the bites are firm. This will make it easier to coat them in chocolate later.
Step 6: Melt the Coatings
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the yellow candy melts and white almond bark separately in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 7: Coat the Cheesecake Bites
Once the bites are firm, dip each one into the melted yellow candy melts, allowing any excess to drip off. Return them to the baking sheet. For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white almond bark on top of the coated bites.
Step 8: Set and Enjoy
Allow the candy coating to set completely. You can place them in the fridge to speed up the process. Once set, these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites are ready to serve!
Variations for Dietary Needs
- Use gluten-free lemon cake mix for a gluten-free option.
- Swap cream cheese for vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Replace dried blueberries with other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a different flavor profile.
- Use dark chocolate melts instead of yellow candy melts for a richer taste.
Testing Timeline
To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites turn out perfectly, follow this testing timeline:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Freezing Time: 30 minutes
- Coating Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. These cheesecake bites also freeze beautifully! Just place them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them for up to two months. To thaw, simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. They make a perfect make-ahead treat for any gathering!
Ask the Chef
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for dried blueberries?
If you don’t have dried blueberries on hand, feel free to use other dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or even raisins for a different twist!
How do I know when the cheesecake bites are fully frozen?
The bites should feel firm to the touch. If they are still soft or sticky, they need more time in the freezer.
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried?
Fresh blueberries can be used, but they will add moisture to the filling. If you prefer a firmer bite, stick with dried blueberries.
Save & Share
These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites are the perfect treat to share with friends and family. Make sure to save this recipe for your next gathering or special occasion, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media. Tag your friends and let them know where to find this delicious recipe!
Indulging in these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites is a delightful experience that encapsulates the warmth of home-baked goodness with a refreshing twist of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack, these bites will undoubtedly bring joy to your taste buds and impress anyone who tries them. Happy baking!
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Cake Mix - In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix with the required ingredients per the package instructions. Usually, this involves adding water, oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
- Step 2: Bake and Cool - Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake according to the package instructions. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling - In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy. Gently fold in the dried blueberries until evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Form the Bites - Once the cake has cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl. Add the cream cheese mixture to the crumbled cake and mix until well combined. Using your hands, form small bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.
- Step 5: Freeze the Bites - Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the bites are firm. This will make it easier to coat them in chocolate later.
- Step 6: Melt the Coatings - In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the yellow candy melts and white almond bark separately in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 7: Coat the Cheesecake Bites - Once the bites are firm, dip each one into the melted yellow candy melts, allowing any excess to drip off. Return them to the baking sheet. For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white almond bark on top of the coated bites.
- Step 8: Set and Enjoy - Allow the candy coating to set completely. You can place them in the fridge to speed up the process. Once set, these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bites are ready to serve!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- These bites freeze well for up to two months.
- To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
