Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 tbsp sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Strawberry Cheesecake Cups because they are an easy and delightful dessert that never fails to impress. The creamy cheesecake filling perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Each cup is a mini indulgence that is so simple to prepare, it quickly becomes a favorite for gatherings and family dinners. Plus, the individual servings make it effortless to share and enjoy without the need for slicing a whole cheesecake!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:25:09.178Z

When I first decided to make Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, I wanted to create a version that was not only delicious but also visually appealing. I found that layering the creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries not only looks great but also enhances the flavor experience in every bite. The crunch of the graham cracker crust gives a wonderful texture contrast that complements the smoothness of the filling.

I discovered that letting the cups chill for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A quick tip: if you want an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture. It elevates the overall taste and leaves everyone wanting more!

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Light and refreshing taste from fresh strawberries
Creamy cheesecake filling that is utterly satisfying
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Individual servings for effortless sharing

      

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust of your Strawberry Cheesecake Cups is key to providing that delightful contrast in texture. Using fresh, high-quality graham crackers is essential; they should be finely crushed for an even base. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand – this ensures it holds together once pressed into the cups. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or using crushed digestive biscuits as a substitute for graham crackers.

When pressing the crust into the bottoms of your cups, make sure to compact it firmly. Use the back of a measuring spoon or your fingers for this step, ensuring it’s even and smooth. If the crust crumbles when you try to remove the dessert later, it means you might not have packed it tightly enough. Once you've formed the crust, bake it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to set and enhance the flavor, but allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling.

Building Flavor with the Cheesecake Filling

The cheesecake filling is where the magic happens. Using room temperature cream cheese is crucial, as it ensures a smooth and creamy texture without any lumps. When combining the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla, make sure to beat it long enough to integrate fully – a couple of minutes should do the trick. Watch for a glossy finish to indicate that air has been incorporated, which adds lightness to your filling.

For the whipped cream, start with chilled heavy cream to achieve better peaks. Whip it on medium-high speed until it holds stiff peaks, which can take around 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn grainy and lose that desired creamy texture. When folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, do so gently with a spatula to maintain its lightness; this will ensure your cheesecake cups are airy and not dense.

Optimal Storage and Serving Suggestions

To get the best out of your Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, refrigerate them for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the filling to firm up slightly, making it easier to enjoy. If you plan to make these ahead of time, they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, covered tightly with plastic wrap to ensure they remain fresh.

When serving, consider garnishing with additional strawberry slices or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra pop of flavor and color. You can also experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for added texture. For a unique twist, try flavoring your cheesecake layer with lemon zest or adding a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Feel free to get creative!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cups:

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Strawberries

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tbsp sugar

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar

Mix these ingredients well to achieve a delicious combination.

Instructions

Here’s how you can prepare your Strawberry Cheesecake Cups:

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down firmly to form the crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Layer the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in each cup, then top it with sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers if desired, finishing with strawberries on top.

Chill and Serve

Cover the cups with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Cups chilled!

These delightful cups are best served chilled.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, drizzle some chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top before serving. This enhances both the flavor and presentation!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheesecake filling turns out lumpy, it’s likely due to not adequately softening the cream cheese before mixing. Make sure to leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave it in short intervals of 10 seconds – just be careful not to melt it, as this can alter the texture.

If the crust crumbles too easily upon serving, revisit your packing technique. It must be densely packed for stability. If your crust still falls apart, consider increasing the melted butter slightly; this will help bind the crumbs together more effectively. In a pinch, adding a bit of cream cheese from the filling mixture to the crust can help it hold when chilled.

Ingredient Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with melted butter. Additionally, dairy-free cream cheese can also replace the cream cheese for a vegan option, and coconut cream can work well for the whipped topping. Almonds or walnuts can be blended into the crust for added flavor without compromising the dessert.

To amplify the fruit experience, feel free to switch up the berries! Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries can be used and will bring their unique flavors while maintaining that burst of freshness. Each berry lends itself to different notes in your cheesecake, so don't hesitate to experiment with what's in season or your personal favorites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter version.

→ How long can I store the cheesecake cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?

Refrigerating allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set for a better texture.