If you’re looking for a quick and elegant dessert that’s bursting with fruity flavor and creamy richness, these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are the perfect answer. These handheld treats combine tangy cream cheese, juicy raspberries, and flaky pastry or cookie bases into irresistible morsels of indulgence — perfect for tea parties, holidays, brunches, or a light weeknight dessert.
With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with very little effort. Best of all, they’re easy to make ahead and serve chilled or warm.
Ingredients
Yields: 24 mini bites
For the Bites:
- 1 sheet refrigerated puff pastry (or 24 mini tart shells)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Crushed graham crackers for texture
- Mint leaves for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Bake time: 15–18 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 40–45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using puff pastry, roll out the sheet and cut into 2×2-inch squares. Place each square into a greased mini muffin tin. If using tart shells, set them on a baking tray.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each pastry or shell.
- Top each with a single raspberry (or a half if large).
- Optionally sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or a pinch of sugar.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until pastry edges are golden and filling is set.
- Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for a melty, gooey center.
- Chill in the fridge for a firmer texture.
- Garnish with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprig of mint for a fancy finish.
- Great for lunchbox treats, bridal showers, or dessert tables.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Bite (1 of 24) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 7 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sodium | 70 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Cream cheese contributes healthy fats and a creamy texture, with a touch of protein.
- Raspberries are rich in antioxidants and add natural tartness with minimal sugar.
- Using puff pastry adds crispness and lightness without being overly heavy.
- Easily adaptable to low-sugar or gluten-free versions if needed.
Tips for Perfect Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t overfill — a little filling goes a long way.
- If using frozen raspberries, be sure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid soggy bottoms.
- For a dessert platter, make them in mini cupcake liners for easy presentation.
Recipe Variations to Try
- Swap raspberries for blueberries, strawberries, or even sliced kiwi.
- Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a refreshing twist.
- Use cookie crusts (like crushed vanilla wafers or graham cracker base) instead of pastry for a no-bake version.
- Make a chocolate version by adding cocoa powder to the filling or drizzling with dark chocolate after baking.
These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are a mini dessert with major flavor. They’re creamy, fruity, slightly sweet, and wonderfully satisfying — all in a couple of bites. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a romantic dinner, or simply need a quick sweet fix, this easy-to-make recipe delivers elegance and taste in one.