Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet, eye-catching dessert that’s perfect for the Fourth of July, these cheesecake pops have it all! The no-bake cheesecake filling is light, creamy, and rich, making it a hit with everyone, while the chocolate coating and candy drizzle add an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal. Plus, the star-shaped pops are both fun to make and to eat, and they come together quickly with just a bit of freezing time. They are ideal for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and any festive summer event.

Ingredients

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup heavy cream, cold

For the chocolate coating

12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening

For decorating

Red candy melts
White candy melts
Blue candy melts
Patriotic sprinkles (optional)
Wooden popsicle sticks

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Combine ingredients: Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the cream cheese and beat again until fully smooth and creamy.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form using a hand mixer on medium speed.
Fold in the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Freeze the mixture: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Spread the cheesecake mixture into an even 1-inch thick layer and freeze for 4 to 5 hours, or until completely firm.
Cut out the stars: Remove the frozen cheesecake slab from the pan using the parchment handles. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to punch out stars, dipping the cutter into warm water between cuts for clean edges.
Insert the sticks: Gently insert a wooden popsicle stick into the bottom of each star and place them back in the freezer for another 30 to 60 minutes to firm up again.
Prepare the chocolate coating: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 to 30 seconds until smooth. Let the chocolate cool slightly so it is warm but not hot.
Coat the stars: Dip each frozen cheesecake star into the melted chocolate, turning to coat completely. Set the coated pops onto a parchment-lined tray. The chocolate will harden quickly due to the cold filling.
Decorate the pops: Melt the red, white, and blue candy melts separately according to package directions. Drizzle the melted candy melts over the chocolate-coated stars in crisscrossing patterns. Add patriotic sprinkles while the drizzle is still wet, if desired.
Chill and serve: Chill the finished cheesecake pops in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 12 cheesecake pops
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Additional Time: 6 hours (freezing)
Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Add fruit: Incorporate fresh fruit into the cheesecake filling, such as strawberries or blueberries, for added flavor and color.
Use different coatings: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, you could try white chocolate or even milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Non-patriotic theme: You can also make these pops for other occasions by changing the candy melt colors to suit birthdays, holidays, or other celebrations.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cheesecake pops in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Reheating: These pops are best enjoyed straight from the freezer and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make these cheesecake pops ahead of time?

Yes! These pops are perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can make the cheesecake filling, freeze it, and coat the pops with chocolate and candy drizzle a day before serving.

Can I use a different shape for the pops?

Absolutely! While star shapes are perfect for the Fourth of July, you can use any cookie cutter shape to fit your celebration theme.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

While you can use whipped topping, fresh whipped cream will give the pops a richer texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the cheesecake mixture from sticking to the cookie cutter?

Dipping the cookie cutter in warm water between cuts helps prevent the cheesecake mixture from sticking and ensures clean edges.

Can I use a different kind of chocolate for coating?

Yes, you can use white, milk, or dark chocolate in place of semi-sweet chocolate for the coating.

Do I have to use candy melts for decorating?

No, you can use regular colored chocolate chips or even royal icing for decorating, though candy melts are easier to work with and give a smooth finish.

How can I make the cheesecake pops firmer?

Ensure that the cheesecake filling is frozen thoroughly before cutting and coating, as this will give the pops a firmer texture.

Can I make these cheesecake pops without a popsicle stick?

Yes, if you prefer, you can serve them as mini cheesecake squares or sticks without the popsicle stick.

Can I use a different type of sprinkles?

Yes, feel free to use any sprinkles that match your theme, such as colorful confetti, chocolate sprinkles, or even crushed cookies.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake pops in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week.

Conclusion

These Fourth of July Cheesecake Pops are a fun, colorful, and delicious dessert that everyone will love. With their creamy filling, crunchy chocolate coating, and festive candy drizzle, they’re the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day in style. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying your summer celebrations with family and friends.