Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Crumble

1. If you’re using store-bought or pre-made red velvet cake, crumble it into fine pieces using your hands or a food processor. You’ll need about 1 cup of crumbs for coating.
2. If desired, mix in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor in the crumbs. Set the crumbs aside in a shallow bowl for coating.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, and continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if necessary, adding more powdered sugar for a sweeter filling.

Step 3: Shape the Cheesecake Bites

1. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cheesecake filling and roll it into a ball with your hands.
2. Place each cheesecake ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the remaining filling.
3. Once all the balls are shaped, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step makes it easier to coat them in the crumbs.

Step 4: Coat the Cheesecake Bites

1. Remove the cheesecake balls from the refrigerator and roll each one in the red velvet cake crumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.
2. Place the coated cheesecake bites back on the parchment-lined baking sheet as you go.
3. Once all the cheesecake bites are coated, refrigerate them again for an additional 30 minutes to allow the coating to set.

Step 5: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

1. If you’d like to add a chocolate drizzle, melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the melted chocolate over the chilled cheesecake bites.
3. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Store

1. Serve the Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites on a decorative plate, or place them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant presentation.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bites can also be frozen for up to 1 month—just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.