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These White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls do not require baking and come together quickly for a showstopping dessert with very little fuss. A cream cheese and graham cracker base gets a bright hit of raspberry then the whole thing is dunked in silky white chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried raspberries. These are always a hit at holiday gatherings and make an easy homemade gift.
I made these for a baby shower once and ended up handing out the recipe to half the guests. Even folks who claim they are not dessert people rave about these every time.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: add structure and a bit of familiar buttery flavor choose fresh storebought or blitz whole crackers to fine crumbs
- Cream cheese: softened to create a creamy tangy base opt for full-fat blocks for best smoothness
- Powdered sugar: blends in easily for just the right amount of sweetness seek out a fresh bag so there are no clumps
- Raspberry preserves: bring vivid color and tart berry brightness look for real fruit versions for best flavor
- White chocolate: melted provides a luxurious coating I like to use high-quality bars rather than chips for smoother melting
- Freeze-dried raspberries: crushed bring a pretty look and concentrated raspberry zing be sure they are crisp and bright in color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl Blend with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until the mixture is completely smooth and there are no lumps left This forms the rich base and ensures every bite melts in your mouth
- Add Raspberry Flavor and Chill:
- Fold in raspberry preserves using a spatula so the filling gets streaked with real fruit Place the bowl in the fridge for 30 minutes so the mixture firms up This prevents sticky hands when rolling
- Roll into Balls and Freeze:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled mixture and roll each one into a ball about one inch across Place on a parchment-lined sheet pan and freeze for 15 minutes The quick chill helps the balls hold their shape for dipping
- Coat with White Chocolate:
- Melt white chocolate in a microwave or double boiler and let cool briefly Dip each cheesecake ball fully into the chocolate using forks or skewers to coat evenly Work quickly so the chocolate does not seize
- Add the Raspberry Topping:
- Before the chocolate sets sprinkle each ball with a pinch of crushed freeze-dried raspberries This gives a tart punch and a burst of color Let the finished balls set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge until firm
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My favorite part is crushing up those freeze-dried raspberries and watching my kids help with sprinkling They always laugh when the ruby crumbs “snow” down over the white chocolate and somehow it never gets old
Storage Tips
Store the finished cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the fridge where they will stay fresh for up to a week Layer them between parchment if stacking to avoid sticking For longer keeping freeze in a single layer on a sheet pan then transfer to a zip bag and freeze for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
No raspberry preserves on hand Swap in strawberry or blackberry preserves for a fun twist If you prefer less sweetness try dark or semisweet chocolate for the coating instead of white chocolate Gluten free graham crackers can be used with great results The texture and taste do not change much
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Serving Suggestions
These look gorgeous arranged on a platter for a shower holiday table or even boxed up as a gift Pair with a mug of hot coffee or a glass of champagne for a decadent treat To make them extra festive drizzle a bit of contrasting chocolate over the top after the initial coating has set
Cultural and Historical Context
Cheesecake balls have their roots in classic American holiday desserts and candy making White chocolate and raspberry is a modern pairing but also a favorite for many years in bakery cheesecakes Transforming those classic flavors into a bite-sized no bake treat turns comfort food into something elegant yet easy
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the mixture from being too sticky?
Chill the mixture thoroughly before rolling and dust your hands lightly with graham cracker crumbs for easy shaping.
- → Can I use fresh raspberries instead of preserves?
Preserves offer more stability and consistency in texture. If using fresh raspberries, ensure to strain excess liquid first.
- → How long will these cheesecake balls keep?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days for best freshness and texture.
- → Can I substitute another type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate to suit your flavor preference.
- → What's the best way to coat the balls in chocolate?
Use a fork or dipping tool to roll each chilled ball in melted chocolate, letting excess drip off for an even coating.
- → Are these suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze them in a sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture.