1. Start by preparing the crust. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a muffin tin lined with paper liners to form a solid crust. Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
3. Divide this luscious cream cheese mixture in half. In one half, gently stir in the melted dark chocolate. In the other half, fold in the caramel sauce until well incorporated.
4. Retrieve the crusts from the fridge. Spoon the chocolate cream cheese mixture onto each crust, followed by the caramel cream cheese mixture. Use a toothpick to swirl the two layers together, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
5. Return the cheesecake bites to the refrigerator and allow them to chill for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm.
6. Just before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top, then garnish each bite with chopped mini chocolate squares and chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Nutritional Information:
Approx. 280 kcal per serving.
Time: Preparation time: 20 minutes | Chilling time: 2 hours
