16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
1.5 teaspoons alcohol-free vanilla extract
1/4 cup red and green festive sprinkles
Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 24-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners, or use two 12-cup standard muffin tins if you prefer slightly larger portions. Ensuring the liners are ready prevents the delicate bites from sticking to the pan later.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and the melted butter. Stir them together until the mixture resembles wet sand. Place about one tablespoon of the mixture into each muffin liner and press down firmly using the back of a small spoon or a clean measuring cup to create a flat, even base.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. This should take about two to three minutes. It is important to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain before adding the other ingredients.
Add the sour cream and alcohol-free vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until the yellow disappears. Avoid overmixing at this stage, as too much air can cause the cheesecake bites to puff up and then sink or crack.
Spoon the cheesecake batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling each one about three-quarters of the way to the top. Bake in the center rack of the oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still have a slight jiggle. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
Once the bites have reached room temperature, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours, though overnight is best. Before serving, garnish with a swirl of whipped cream and a generous dusting of red and green sprinkles to give them that signature Christmas look.
