Save to Pins Celebrate love with these romantic, creamy no-bake cheesecake cups. Layered with fresh strawberries and a buttery graham cracker crust, they are the perfect sweet treat for an elegant Valentine's Day celebration. These individual servings make for a beautiful presentation without the fuss of a full-sized cake.
Save to Pins Whether you're planning a candlelit dinner for two or a festive Galentine's brunch, these cheesecake cups offer a sophisticated finish to any meal. The contrast between the crunchy base, the velvety center, and the juicy fruit topping creates a delightful balance in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp (40 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 6 whole strawberries, halved
- Optional: heart-shaped sprinkles or white chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tbsp sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Step 2
- Spoon 2 tbsp of the crust mixture into the bottom of each serving cup or glass. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Set aside.
- Step 3
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Step 4
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended and fluffy.
- Step 5
- Divide cheesecake filling evenly among the cups, spooning it over the graham cracker crust. Smooth the tops with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Step 6
- In a small bowl, toss diced strawberries with 1 tbsp sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes to macerate.
- Step 7
- Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer in each cup.
- Step 8
- Chill cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Step 9
- Before serving, garnish each cup with a strawberry half and, if desired, heart-shaped sprinkles or white chocolate shavings.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a perfectly smooth filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before beating. When whipping the heavy cream, use a cold bowl and beaters to reach stiff peaks more effectively.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies to suit dietary needs. You can also experiment with different berries like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.
Serviervorschläge
For an extra citrus kick, add a dash of lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture. These desserts pair beautifully with a glass of sparkling rosé or a light, fruity white wine.
Save to Pins Indulge in these delightful strawberry cheesecake cups and make your celebration truly memorable. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of crunch, cream, and fruit, making it a timeless treat for Valentine's Day or any day you want to share a little love.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I make the crust for these cups?
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until crumbly, then press into the bottom of each cup to form a firm base.
- → Can I use other berries instead of strawberries?
Yes, raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries can be used for variation in flavor and color.
- → Is chilling necessary, and for how long?
Chilling for at least 2 hours helps the filling set and the flavors meld for the best texture and taste.
- → How do I achieve a fluffy filling texture?
Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and airy.
- → What can I use as a garnish for these cups?
Strawberry halves, heart-shaped sprinkles, or white chocolate shavings add a decorative touch and complement the flavors.