Grilled New York Cheesecake Bites with Fresh Berries

Introduction

Imagine biting into a dessert where the smoky warmth of the grill meets the cool, creamy richness of classic New York cheesecake. It sounds like a culinary paradox, but grilling cheesecake is a revelation that transforms a standard treat into an unforgettable outdoor dining experience. By placing these bite-sized morsels on the Arteflame, you achieve a subtle caramelization on the exterior while keeping the center luscious and cool. This recipe is perfect for those who want to impress guests without spending hours baking from scratch.

The secret lies in the temperature contrast. The high heat of the flat top griddle quickly sears the edges of the cheesecake and the fresh fruit, enhancing their natural sugars. This isn't just a dessert; it is a texture-rich adventure that combines the snap of fresh berries with the velvety smoothness of cheese filling. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy autumn gathering, these Grilled New York Cheesecake Bites are the ultimate finale to your meal.

Ingredients

• 1 Whole Frozen New York Style Cheesecake (thawed slightly for cutting, but kept very firm)
• 1 lb Fresh Strawberries, hulled and left whole
• 1 pint Fresh Blueberries
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for the grill surface)
• 1/2 cup Raspberry or Strawberry Coulis (for drizzling)
• Fresh Mint Leaves (for garnish)
• Bamboo or Metal Skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 20 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cheesecake and Fruit

1. Remove your frozen cheesecake from the packaging. It is crucial that the cheesecake remains firm and mostly frozen to hold its shape during cutting and grilling.
2. Using a sharp knife run under hot water, slice the cheesecake into 1-inch to 1.5-inch cubes. If the cheesecake begins to soften too much, place the cubes back in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Wash and hull the strawberries and rinse the blueberries.
4. Thread the ingredients onto your skewers in an alternating pattern: start with a strawberry, follow with a cube of cheesecake, add a few blueberries, and repeat until the skewer is full but manageable. Keep these chilled until you are ready to grill.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start your Arteflame grill and build a medium fire in the center. You want the flat cooktop griddle to reach a medium-high heat.
2. Allow the cooktop to heat up evenly. You are looking for a surface temperature that will sear quickly without melting the cheese instantly.
3. Spread the unsalted butter over the area of the plancha where you intend to cook. The butter adds a savory richness and prevents sticking.

Step 3: The Quick Sear

1. Place the cold skewers directly onto the buttered flat top grill.
2. Grill for only 1 to 2 minutes per side. You are looking for grill marks or a golden-brown crust on the cheesecake and a slight softening of the fruit.
3. Work quickly! The goal is to warm the outside and caramelize the sugars while keeping the inside of the cheesecake cool and firm.
4. Rotate the skewers carefully using tongs to ensure all sides get a kiss of heat.

Step 4: Plating and Serving

1. Remove the skewers from the grill immediately once seared.
2. Place them on a serving platter.
3. Drizzle generously with the raspberry or strawberry coulis.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the contrast between hot and cold is at its peak.

Tips

The absolute most critical factor in this recipe is temperature management. Your cheesecake cubes must be nearly frozen when they hit the grill. If they are at room temperature, they will melt into a puddle on the griddle rather than developing a tasty crust. Keep your skewers in the freezer until the very last second before grilling. Additionally, ensure your grill is fully heated before cooking; a lukewarm grill will lead to sticking and melting.

When choosing your cheesecake, opt for a dense New York style rather than a fluffy, whipped, or no-bake variety. The density of the New York style is required to maintain structural integrity on the heat. Also, keep your tools ready. This is a fast-paced cooking process, so have your tongs, platter, and sauce ready to go before you put the first skewer on the fire.

Variations

While the classic berry and cheesecake combination is a crowd-pleaser, the versatility of the Arteflame allows for endless creativity. You can easily adapt the flavor profile to match the season or your personal preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment with different drizzles or cake bases to find your perfect bite. Here are a few delicious twists to try:

• The Chocolate Lover: Swap the fruit coulis for a warm chocolate ganache drizzle and alternate brownie bites with the cheesecake.
• Tropical Twist: Use chunks of fresh pineapple and mango instead of berries, and finish with a dusting of toasted coconut flakes.
• Autumn Spice: Dust the cheesecake cubes with cinnamon sugar before grilling and serve with a warm caramel dipping sauce.
• S'mores Style: Add marshmallows to the skewer and sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the top right after grilling.
• Savory Sweet: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and a pinch of sea salt for a sophisticated flavor profile.

Best pairings

To elevate these grilled cheesecake bites, consider your beverage pairings carefully. The richness of the cheese and the smoky char call for drinks that can cut through the creaminess or complement the sweetness. A robust, dark roast coffee or a double shot of espresso is the classic choice, providing a bitter counterpoint to the sweet dessert. For an evening affair, a chilled glass of dessert wine, such as a Riesling or a Moscato, pairs beautifully with the fruit elements.

If you prefer a cocktail, an Espresso Martini or a bourbon-based drink like an Old Fashioned works wonders. The caramel notes in the bourbon echo the caramelized exterior of the cheesecake. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade with muddled mint refreshes the palate between bites, making the rich dessert feel lighter and more refreshing.

Conclusion

Grilled New York Cheesecake Bites are a testament to the versatility of outdoor cooking. They break the mold of traditional barbecue fare, offering a sophisticated dessert that is both fun to make and a joy to eat. The unique combination of textures—warm and crisp on the outside, cold and creamy on the inside—creates a sensory experience that standard oven-baked desserts simply cannot replicate.

Using your Arteflame for this recipe not only imparts a subtle, delicious flavor but also turns dessert into an interactive event. Whether you stick to the classic berry version or experiment with chocolate and tropical fruits, this recipe is guaranteed to become a requested favorite at all your future gatherings. Fire up the grill and get ready to redefine what dessert can be.