These Baileys Cheesecake Bites are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake with a splash of Irish cream liqueur, creating an indulgent and decadent treat. The rich flavor of Baileys mixed with smooth cheesecake and a buttery graham cracker crust makes these bites ideal for parties, celebrations, or whenever you want a little taste of luxury. Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or freezer. Let’s dive into how to make these boozy, bite-sized desserts!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Baileys Cheesecake Bites
- Instructions for Baileys Cheesecake Bites
- Cooking Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Baileys Cheesecake Bites
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions for Baileys Cheesecake Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sour cream, Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and eggs, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid incorporating too much air into the batter.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
Step 4: Cut into Bites
- Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut the cheesecake into 1-inch squares for bite-sized treats.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping (Optional)
- If desired, melt the chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Drizzle or dip the cheesecake bites in the melted chocolate, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest filling.
- Cutting the Bites: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between each cut.
- Chilling Time: Allow enough time for the cheesecake to chill properly. This will make it easier to cut and ensure the bites are firm.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Different Liqueurs: Swap the Baileys with another liqueur like Kahlua or Amaretto for a different flavor twist.
- Oreo Crust: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreo cookies for a chocolatey crust.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, try drizzling the bites with melted white chocolate for a contrasting flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these cheesecake bites in advance?
Yes! These cheesecake bites can be made 2-3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze Baileys Cheesecake Bites?
Absolutely. You can freeze these bites in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
3. How do I store leftover cheesecake bites?
Store leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I use light cream cheese?
For the creamiest texture, it’s best to use full-fat cream cheese. However, you can use light cream cheese if desired, though the texture may be slightly less rich.
These Baileys Cheesecake Bites are the perfect indulgent treat for any occasion. Rich, creamy, and with a hint of Irish cream liqueur, they offer a luxurious bite-sized dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to eat! Whether you drizzle them with chocolate or keep them simple, these cheesecake bites are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how they turn out!
Happy baking, and enjoy every creamy bite of these delightful treats!
