Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped cream; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 2 tablespoons sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Cheesecake Cups for gatherings or just to enjoy at home. The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries is a match made in heaven. Not only are they deliciously indulgent, but they also look beautiful when served. The versatility of this recipe allows me to adjust the sweetness or add different flavors, making it one of my favorite go-tos. I promise, after trying this delightful dessert, you will want to make it on repeat!

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:28:07.678Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, I had no idea they would become such a hit! I wanted to create a dessert that was both rich and light, and the individual cups turned out to be the perfect solution. Using a no-bake cheesecake filling allows for a quick assembly, making it incredibly simple yet satisfying.

One key tip I've discovered is to ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. This step guarantees a smooth and creamy texture without the lumps. Plus, layering in the strawberries adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor, truly elevating this delightful treat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberry sweetness
A no-bake dessert that's easy and quick to assemble
Beautifully presented in individual cups, ideal for sharing or serving at parties

      

Mastering the Cheesecake Filling

The key to a velvety cheesecake filling lies in the quality of your cream cheese. Make sure it's at room temperature; this ensures it blends smoothly with the sugar and vanilla, creating a creamy base. When folding in the whipped cream, do so gently to maintain the airiness, which gives the cheesecake that desirable light texture. Over-mixing can cause it to deflate, leaving you with a denser filling than intended.

Another tip is to taste your filling before assembling the cups. Depending on your preference for sweetness or tanginess, you may want to adjust the sugar or add a splash more vanilla. Additionally, if you're looking for a citrusy zing, a touch of lemon zest can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

Perfecting the Strawberry Topping

For the strawberry topping, using fresh, ripe strawberries is crucial. Choose berries that are bright red and fragrant, as these will provide maximum flavor. The maceration process, which involves mixing them with sugar and lemon juice, not only enhances their sweetness but also softens their texture slightly, making them a perfect complement to the creamy cheesecake filling. Let this mixture sit for at least 10 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for 30 minutes will deepen the flavor even further.

If you want to try variations, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of mint to the strawberries for a refreshing twist. This can elevate the taste and add an unexpected layer of complexity to your dessert.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cups can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings. Prepare the crust and filling a day in advance, and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cups and add the strawberry topping. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

When serving, consider garnishing with additional whipped cream or fresh mint leaves to enhance the visual appeal. These cups can be conveniently transported if you’re heading to a picnic or gathering, as the individual servings are easy to carry and share, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert without the mess of a traditional cheesecake.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream

For the Strawberry Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each serving cup to create a base.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream until incorporated.

Layer the Cups

Spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the graham cracker crust in each cup. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a small bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Serve

Top each cheesecake cup with a generous spoonful of the macerated strawberries and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache atop the cheesecake filling before adding the strawberries.

Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavors for the cheesecake filling. For instance, swapping out a portion of the cream cheese for mascarpone can create an even richer flavor. You can also fold in melted chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent twist. Stop by your favorite extract store to explore almond or coconut extracts, which would lend a unique flavor that pairs nicely with strawberries.

For those who enjoy a tangy twist, incorporating a bit of sour cream into your cheesecake filling can enhance its flavor and provide a creamier texture. This adds an extra layer of richness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your crust isn’t sticking together, it might be too dry. Make sure you’re using enough melted butter, as this acts as the binding agent. If necessary, add a bit more melted butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the crumbs hold together when pressed. Conversely, if the crust is too soggy, allow it to bake in the oven for a few additional minutes until it firms up – this helps ensure it can hold the filling without becoming gooey.

Should you find that your cheesecake filling is grainy, this might indicate that your cream cheese wasn't softened adequately. Always let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. In the case of over-mixed whipped cream leading to a separation, you can try gently folding in a bit of additional whipped cream to the mixture to create a smoother consistency.

Serving Size and Scaling

This recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to double or halve the quantities with little fuss. If you're expecting a larger gathering, consider serving this dessert in larger glasses or even in a trifle dish to create a stunning centerpiece. Each cup typically holds about 1/2 cup of filling, so if you're making a batch for a dinner party, plan for at least 2-3 cups per guest for a generous serving.

For smaller gatherings or personal indulgence, using mini dessert cups can create a delightful, bite-sized version of this treat. You can even blend in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries for a mixed-fruit topping if you're serving a variety of flavors to your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling and crust a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crust may get a bit soggy over time.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture.

→ What if I want a gluten-free version?

You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or nut-based crusts to make it gluten-free.