These Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake Bites are a fun, bite-sized dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a sweet jelly swirl on top. They are creamy, nostalgic, and perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a no-bake treat that feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesecake bites are easy to make without turning on the oven, making them ideal for warm days or quick prep. The classic peanut butter and jelly flavor brings a comforting, familiar taste, while the cheesecake texture adds a smooth and indulgent twist. They are also perfectly portioned, easy to serve, and simple to customize with different toppings or flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp granulated sugar
6 tbsp butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling
16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping or stabilized whipped cream

Jelly Swirl
½ cup grape or strawberry jelly
1–2 tbsp water

Peanut Butter Drizzle
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
1–2 tbsp heavy cream or melted butter

Directions

Line a mini muffin pan with paper liners and set it aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then beat again until fully combined and lump-free. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the filling is light and creamy.

Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly into each crust-lined cup, filling nearly to the top. Warm the jelly slightly and mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to thin it. Add a small dollop of jelly on top of each cheesecake and gently swirl if desired.

Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for 3 to 4 hours, or until fully set.

To make the drizzle, warm the peanut butter with the heavy cream or melted butter until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake bites, then return them to the refrigerator for another 10 to 15 minutes to set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 mini cheesecake bites.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 3½ to 4 hours
Total time: about 4 hours

Storage/Reheating

Store the cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. These bites are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, chunky peanut butter can be used for extra texture, though the filling will be slightly less smooth.

What type of jelly works best?

Both grape and strawberry jelly work well, but you can use any smooth fruit jelly or jam you prefer.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake bites are perfect for making a day in advance and storing in the refrigerator until serving.

Do I need a mixer to make the filling?

A hand mixer or stand mixer is recommended for a smooth filling, but you can mix by hand if the cream cheese is very soft.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, stabilized whipped cream works just as well as store-bought whipped topping.

How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?

Press the crust firmly into the liners and make sure the butter is evenly mixed with the crumbs.

Are these cheesecake bites overly sweet?

They are sweet but balanced by the peanut butter and cream cheese. You can slightly reduce the powdered sugar if preferred.

Can I skip the peanut butter drizzle?

Yes, the drizzle is optional, but it adds extra flavor and a nice finishing touch.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

You can substitute digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer crumbs in the crust.

Can these be served frozen?

They can be served slightly frozen for a firmer, ice-cream-like texture, but most people prefer them fully thawed and chilled.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake Bites are a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and nostalgic flavors in a simple, no-bake dessert. With minimal prep and plenty of room for customization, they are an excellent choice for gatherings, celebrations, or a quick treat to keep on hand. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite dessert in your recipe collection.

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