Description
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Cups combine a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries, creating a delightful individual dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Light, creamy, and easy to make, these no-bake cups offer all the flavors of a classic strawberry shortcake with the richness of cheesecake.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- ½ cup crushed shortbread cookies (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is well blended and holds together when pressed.
- Form the crust base: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner or dessert cup. Press down firmly to create an even layer. Place the cups in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Fold in vanilla and whipped cream: Gently fold the vanilla extract and the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the cups: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over each prepared crust in the dessert cups.
- Add toppings: Top each cup with diced fresh strawberries and sprinkle with crushed shortbread cookies if using, for extra texture and flavor.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake cups for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute crushed vanilla wafers for the graham cracker crumbs if preferred.
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor.
- These cups can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Optional crushed shortbread cookies add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a smoother texture.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
