Easy Cheesecake Bites

These cheesecake bites are so easy to make, and perfect for any holiday with their natural red, white, and blue colors. Because their patriotic colors are not overpowering, these cheesecake bites are versatile and can be served for any occasion.

Variations:
Feel free to create any design you want! My design is only a suggestion, so please experiment!

Easy Cheesecake Bites
Makes 12 mini-cheesecakes

Graham Cracker Crust:
1 & 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cups white sugar
1/4 cups unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake:
16 oz. packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup blueberry or strawberry jelly (optional)
fresh blueberries (optional)
fresh strawberries (optional)

Preheat oven to 350˚. Spray the inside of a muffin tin with cooking spray (or, you could use muffin liners instead).

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter together. Divide the mixture evenly into each muffin liner, and press down with the bottom of a spoon to create a firm crust.

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-high until light and fluffy. Add the sugar, flour, vanilla, and eggs and beat until combined. Divide mixture evenly between all the muffin liners and shake the muffin tin gently until the tops of each of the cheesecakes are flat.

In order to create a design on top, microwave the jelly for 30 seconds to melt it. Using a toothpick, draw parallel lines on top with the jelly. Then, drag a clean toothpick perpendicularly through the jelly lines, alternating directions, to create the same design I did. Alternatively, you could also draw hearts or write words with the jelly.

Bake for 15-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely. Garnish with fresh berries.