Description
Cherry Cheesecake Cake Shooters are delightful individual dessert servings that combine a crumbly vanilla cake base, a creamy homemade cheesecake layer, and a luscious cherry pie topping. These easy-to-make shooters are perfect for parties or anytime you crave a rich, fruity treat in a convenient portion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Layer
- 1 ½ cups crumbled vanilla or pound cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Cherry Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base: Crumble the vanilla or pound cake into fine pieces using your hands or a food processor. Optionally mix in melted butter for extra richness and help the crumbs bind better. Place about one tablespoon of the cake crumbs into the bottom of each shooter glass and gently press down with a spoon to form a flat, compact base.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and evenly blended, creating a light, airy cheesecake filling.
- Assemble the Shooters: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the cake base in each shooter glass, filling about three-quarters of the glass. Smooth the tops gently to create an even surface for the topping.
- Add the Cherry Topping: Spoon a generous amount of cherry pie filling over each cheesecake layer, making sure to include plenty of cherries and sauce without overfilling. This adds a sweet and tangy finish and beautiful layering.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled shooters for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake filling to set completely. Before serving, optionally garnish each shooter with a fresh cherry for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries or homemade cherry compote for a natural topping alternative.
- Melted butter in the cake crumbs helps hold the base together and adds flavor, but it’s optional.
- For easier filling, you can pipe the cheesecake layer with a piping bag.
- Keep the shooters refrigerated until serving to maintain texture and freshness.
- These shooters can be prepared a day ahead and kept chilled overnight for convenience.
