Introduction

These Cherry Cheesecake Bites are a delightful, bite-sized treat perfect for parties or a sweet snack. Crisp phyllo shells hold a rich, creamy cheesecake filling topped with vibrant cherry pie filling for a burst of flavor in every bite.

The image shows multiple small dessert cups arranged in a neat grid on a white marbled surface. Each dessert has three visible layers: the bottom layer is made of light golden, crispy, flaky phyllo dough shaped like petals forming a cup; the middle layer is a smooth, creamy white filling sitting inside the phyllo cup; the top layer is a glossy, bright red cherry jelly dome centered on the creamy layer, with a shiny surface reflecting light. Some small crumbs of the phyllo dough are scattered around the cups. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, divided

1/4 cup sour cream
1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cooking spray

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 (16-oz.) box phyllo dough
1 (21-oz.) can cherry pie filling (about 2 1/3 cups)

Instructions

Step 1: In the large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and 1/4 cup sugar on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl, add sour cream, and beat to combine. Scrape sides again, then add egg and vanilla and beat until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Transfer the cheesecake mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour or up to 3 days.
Step 3: Preheat the oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the center. Spray 32 cups across two 24-cup mini muffin tins with cooking spray.

Step 4: Lay the phyllo sheets flat on a cutting board and carefully cut into 3-inch squares, making about 128 squares total. Cover with a damp kitchen towel to keep them from drying out.
Step 5: Working with 4 squares at a time, brush each square with melted butter and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon sugar. Stack the 4 squares and place each stack into a muffin cup. Gently press the center to form a small cup shape. Repeat until all stacks are made.
Step 6: Spoon about 1 1/2 teaspoons of the chilled cheesecake filling into the center of each phyllo cup.

Step 7: Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the phyllo is golden brown. Let cool slightly.
Step 8: Using a spatula, carefully transfer the cheesecake bites to a serving platter. Spoon cherry pie filling on top of each bite before serving.

Tips & Variations

To prevent phyllo from drying out, keep sheets covered with a damp towel while working.

Use frozen unsalted butter and melt it just before brushing the phyllo for easy application.
Try swapping cherry pie filling with blueberry or raspberry for a different fruity twist.
For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds on top with the cherry filling.

Storage

Store leftover cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed the same day but can be gently reheated in a low-temperature oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes to refresh the phyllo crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep the phyllo from getting soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows small dessert cups with three layers. The outer layer is crispy, light golden brown pastry sheets, shaped like open cups with delicate, crinkled edges. Inside, there is a soft, crumbly cream cheese filling that looks pale and smooth. On top of each cup, there is a shiny, bright red cherry with a glossy syrup dripping down over the cream cheese and pastry. One dessert cup in the front has a bite taken out of it, revealing the crumbly cream cheese inside and a drop of red syrup falling onto the white plate. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with some pastry flakes scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Yes, the cheesecake filling can be made and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance, which also makes it easier to handle when assembling the bites.

What can I use if I don’t have phyllo dough?

Phyllo dough creates the signature crisp and flaky shell, but you could try using mini tart shells or puff pastry cut into squares as alternatives for a different texture.