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Close-up of a single Santa Hat Cheesecake Bite showing the thick buttery graham cracker crust and smooth ivory cheesecake filling.

Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites: The Ultimate Festive Holiday Dessert

These Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites feature a thick buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth ivory cheesecake layer, and a fresh strawberry 'hat' finished with piped whipped cream. The perfect festive treat for your Christmas dessert table.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizer, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

Buttery Crust
  • 1.5 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs finely pulsed
  • 5 tbsp (70g) salted butter melted
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
Ivory Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese full-fat, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
Santa Hat Decoration
  • 24 whole fresh strawberries hulled and dried
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream cold
  • 2 tbsp (30g) powdered sugar

Equipment

  • 1 Mini Muffin Tin Standard 24-cup capacity
  • 1 Piping Bag with Star Tip For the textured whipped cream ring

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press 1 tablespoon into each lined mini muffin cup.
  2. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 5 minutes. Remove and cool.
Bake the Cheesecake
  1. Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and ivory-colored. Add vanilla and eggs one at a time on low speed.
  2. Fill cups 3/4 full. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
  3. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Decorate the Santa Hats
  1. Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.
  2. Place a flat-bottomed strawberry on each cheesecake. Pipe a textured ring around the base and a small dollop on the tip.

Notes

Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
Ensure strawberries are completely dry before adding whipped cream to prevent sliding.