When you’re craving a luxurious treat without turning on the oven, these No-Bake Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Bites are the ultimate solution. With layers of rich chocolate, silky caramel, and smooth cream cheese all nestled in a cookie crust, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a no-fuss weeknight indulgence.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No oven required – perfect for warm weather
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Rich, layered flavor of dark chocolate and buttery caramel
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Easy to make ahead and ideal for entertaining
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Visually stunning with a marbled swirl and gourmet toppings
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
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2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs – Provides a deep, cocoa-rich base for each bite.
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the cookie crumbs for a firm, no-bake crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened – Delivers a creamy, tangy base that holds the layers together.
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1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling without overwhelming it.
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1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic depth of flavor.
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1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted – Mixed into half the filling for rich chocolate flavor.
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1/2 cup caramel sauce – Blended into the other half of the filling for a sweet, buttery contrast.
For the Topping:
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1/2 cup mini chocolate squares (such as Rolos), chopped – Adds chewy, chocolatey caramel texture on top.
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Chocolate shavings – A final elegant touch of chocolate for garnish.
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Additional caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for extra indulgence and visual appeal.
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Tips and Tricks
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Use high-quality dark chocolate for deeper flavor.
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Chill the crusts while preparing the filling to keep them firm.
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Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before mixing into cream cheese.
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Use a zip-top bag with a snipped corner for easy caramel drizzling.
Variations and Customizations
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Peanut butter twist: Add peanut butter to one half of the filling.
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Sea salt sprinkle: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a salted caramel vibe.
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Different crusts: Use graham cracker crumbs or Biscoff cookie crumbs for variety.
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Add nuts: Chopped pecans or toasted almonds bring a great crunch.
Pairing Suggestions
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Espresso or dark roast coffee to complement the chocolate
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Vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freeze (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and add toppings before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but dark chocolate offers a richer flavor that balances the sweetness of the caramel.
Can these be made ahead?
Absolutely. Make them the day before and garnish just before serving.
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Do I need a stand mixer?
Nope! A hand mixer or even a strong whisk will do the job just fine.
PrintNo Bake Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Bites
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
Description
Decadent layers of chocolate, gooey caramel, and velvety cream cheese atop a crispy cookie crust—all without baking! Perfect for last-minute cravings, parties, or when you need a fuss-free dessert that wows.
Ingredients
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2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup dark chocolate chips, melted
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½ cup caramel sauce
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½ cup mini chocolate squares (like Rolos), chopped
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Extra caramel sauce, for drizzling
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Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter.
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Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
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Press about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture into each liner to form a solid crust.
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Place the tin in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
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Divide the cheesecake mixture into two equal portions.
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Mix the melted chocolate into one half.
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Stir the caramel sauce into the other half.
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Step 3: Layer and Swirl
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Spoon the chocolate cheesecake mixture over each chilled crust.
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Follow with a spoonful of the caramel cheesecake layer.
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Use a toothpick to gently swirl the two layers for a marbled design.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
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Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
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Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with chopped chocolate candies, and top with chocolate shavings.
Notes
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Ensure all ingredients are room temperature before mixing for the smoothest texture.
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The swirling step not only looks beautiful but helps balance both flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
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