For the Cupcake Base

You can use a homemade vanilla cupcake batter or even a boxed mix if you want a shortcut. Both work beautifully for this recipe.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)

Optional flavor add-ins for the cupcake base:

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (pairs perfectly with cherry)
• Zest of 1 lemon (adds brightness)

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For the Cheesecake Filling

This is what makes the cupcake bites truly special—soft, creamy cheesecake baked right inside the cupcake.

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

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For the Cherry Topping

The easiest option is cherry pie filling, and it tastes great. But you can also make your own topping if you want a homemade feel.

Option A (quick + classic):

• 1 can cherry pie filling (about 21 oz)

Option B (homemade cherry topping):

• 2 cups cherries (fresh or frozen)
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

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Optional Garnishes

These are not required, but they make your cupcake bites look extra beautiful and bakery-worthy:

• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings
• Crushed graham crackers
• Mini chocolate chips
• Powdered sugar dusting