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Elegant Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

strawberry cheesecake cups - featured image

A quick and easy layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and fresh macerated strawberries. Perfect for brunches, celebrations, or any time you crave a sweet but light treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand (about 2 minutes).
  2. Spoon the crust mixture evenly into dessert cups, pressing gently with the back of a spoon to create a firm base layer. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling (about 5 minutes).
  3. In a small bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to macerate.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy (3-4 minutes). Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  5. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form (3-5 minutes).
  6. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, preserving the airy texture.
  7. Remove cups from fridge and add a generous layer of cheesecake mixture over the crust. Top with a spoonful of macerated strawberries and some syrup.
  8. Refrigerate assembled cups for at least 2 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and cheesecake layer firm up.
  9. Before serving, garnish with a fresh strawberry slice or a small mint leaf.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Whip heavy cream to soft peaks only to maintain light texture. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture to keep layers airy. Macerate strawberries to enhance flavor and natural syrup. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. For gluten-free, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or almond flour. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry cheesecake cups, layered dessert, easy cheesecake, no-bake dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, fresh strawberries