GOOD EATS: raspberry chocolate cheesecake bites

Countdown is on. It’s the last weekend of holiday parties before the big event itself. If you’re hosting or looking for a dessert to bring, here’s a popular and festive looking treat that will definitely be a bit hit. It has it all, fruit, cheesecake & chocolate all packaged up in a nice little bite. The pink berries inspired me to take a less traditional look for this one and a perfect reason to put my mini pink tree & vintage fabric to use.

RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE BITES:

• 1⅓ cup fresh raspberries
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 2 Tbsp powdered or granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 cup cool whip
• 1 cup melted semi-sweet or dark chocolate
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

STEP 1: use an electric mixer and blend together cream cheese, sugar & lemon zest until combined.  Then stir in berries by hand until they are combined and the mixture is evenly pink.

STEP 2: pour into parchment paper lined baking dish and put in freezer for 30-60 minutes or until the mixture is almost frozen.

STEP 3: scoop out approx. 1 tbsp worth of mixture and roll into a round ball. You need to work quickly because the mixture will begin to soften. If you need to, return to freezer to firm up again. Once done, place the tray of cheesecake balls into the freezer for another 30 minutes.

STEP 4: melt chocolate over a double boiler. Remove cheesecake bites from freezer and using a fork, carefully roll the bites in the chocolate and place on wire rack to let the excess drip off. Sprinkle with crushed graham cracker crumbs before the chocolate cools.

Once you’re finished place back in freezer. Remove about 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve.

Dessert is served. Enjoy!