Introduction

These Snow Globe Cheesecake Bites are a whimsical and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. Each bite-sized cheesecake sits atop a buttery cookie crust and is topped with a charming fondant snowman encased in a clear gelatin dome, creating a magical snow globe effect.

The image shows six small round desserts, each with two layers: a crumbly golden brown base and a smooth creamy white top layer. On each dessert, there is a swirl of white cream decorated with small shiny red balls and a white star-shaped topper dusted with powdered sugar. Each dessert is covered with a clear, dome-shaped lid that adds a glossy effect. The desserts are arranged on a wooden board dusted with powdered sugar, with a soft and warm light in the background that hints at a festive setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies
3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 tbsp sour cream
Clear gelatin sheets or powder (prepared according to package instructions to make domes)
Fondant (white, orange, and black for snowmen)
Edible glitter or sugar crystals (optional, for snow effect)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, mix crushed cookies, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar until combined. Press about 1 teaspoon of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each muffin cup. Bake for 5 minutes, then let the crusts cool completely.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ⅓ cup sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and egg, mixing until just combined. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the cooled crusts, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecakes for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to chill thoroughly.
Step 4: Prepare the clear gelatin domes according to the package instructions. Pour the gelatin into silicone half-sphere molds to create the domes and allow them to set completely in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Roll the white fondant into small balls to form the snowmen’s bodies and heads. Use black fondant to make eyes and buttons, and orange fondant for the carrot noses. Decorate each snowman as desired and set them aside to firm up.
Step 6: Carefully remove the mini cheesecakes from the muffin tin. Place one fondant snowman on top of each cheesecake. Lightly sprinkle edible glitter or sugar crystals around the snowman for a snowy effect.
Step 7: Gently cover each cheesecake and snowman with a gelatin dome, ensuring the snowman is fully enclosed inside the clear dome. Chill until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling.
If you don’t have silicone half-sphere molds, small clear plastic domes can be used as an alternative for covering the treats.
Use colored sugar crystals to add a festive touch around the snowmen inside the domes.
Make the fondant snowmen a day ahead to let them firm up properly before assembly.

Storage

Store the Snow Globe Cheesecake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the gelatin domes intact to maintain the snow globe effect. To serve, bring them to room temperature for about 10 minutes if desired, but avoid leaving them out too long as the gelatin may soften.

How to Serve

Small round desserts have three layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly light brown crust, the middle layer is smooth and creamy white, and on top is a swirl of white whipped cream decorated with small shiny red balls and a white star-shaped topping dusted with powdered sugar. Each dessert is covered with a clear dome, and they are placed on a wooden board dusted with powdered sugar, all set on a white marbled texture. The background shows soft warm lights suggesting a cozy setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even ginger snaps for a spicier flavor.

What should I do if I don’t have gelatin sheets?

You can use powdered gelatin instead, just follow the package directions to achieve the right consistency for clear domes. Agar-agar is not recommended here as it sets differently and may not be clear.