Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the No-Bake Cheesecake Bites: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tbsp sugar. Press firmly into mini cupcake liners on a tray.
- Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.
- Spoon or pipe filling over crusts. Top with berries, lemon curd, or preserves. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Make the Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Pops: Insert a lollipop stick into each dry strawberry. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), stirring until smooth. Melt white chocolate separately if using.
- Dip each strawberry 2/3 into chocolate, let excess drip, then roll in toppings. Place on parchment. Drizzle with white chocolate if desired. Let set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Make the Peanut Butter Blossoms: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a bowl, stir together peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, and egg until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in extra granulated sugar. Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Let cool on sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
MAKE-AHEAD: Cheesecake bites must chill for 2+ hours and are best made a day ahead. Strawberry pops can be made up to 6 hours ahead; store in a cool place (refrigerate if humid, but they may sweat). Peanut butter blossom dough balls can be frozen on a tray and baked from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to bake time. PRESENTATION: Use tiered stands and varied platters for visual interest. Label treats for allergies (e.g., 'Contains Peanuts'). VARIATIONS: Add espresso powder to dark chocolate, lemon zest to cheesecake filling, or roll peanut butter balls in crushed pretzels for crunch.
