Raspberry cream cheese bites are the perfect blend of tart raspberries and creamy, slightly sweetened cream cheese nestled in a buttery crust. These delightful treats are easy to make and versatile, serving as a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a sweet addition to a brunch spread. The tanginess of the raspberries pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese, creating a bite-sized treat that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased mini muffin pan to form small crusts.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crusts for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- Make the Filling:
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Bites:
- Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture into each crust.
- Place a raspberry on top of each filled crust. Gently press it into the cream cheese filling.
- Chill and Serve:
- Place the bites in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
- Optional: Before serving, dust the bites with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Calories:
Each raspberry cream cheese bite contains approximately 80-100 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Healthy or Not Healthy:
These treats are moderately indulgent and best enjoyed in moderation. While they include natural raspberries rich in vitamins and antioxidants, the crust and cream cheese filling are higher in fats and sugars, making them more of an occasional treat than a daily snack. For a healthier twist, you could substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, use a low-fat cream cheese alternative, or reduce the sugar content.
Enjoy these delightful raspberry cream cheese bites as a flavorful treat that’s sure to impress!