Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 cups
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of strawberries)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Strawberry Cheesecake Cups for gatherings and special occasions. These little delights are perfect for those who appreciate a rich, creamy dessert without the hassle of a full cheesecake. With a buttery crust, a velvety cream cheese filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, each bite is a burst of flavor. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which makes them a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I can’t wait to share how to make these delicious treats with you!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:22:07.590Z

When I first made these Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, I was astounded by how simple yet impressive they turned out. The combination of graham cracker crust and creamy cheesecake filling is irresistible, but the real game-changer is the fresh strawberry topping. Using ripe, sweet strawberries makes all the difference!

I’ve tried various ways to prepare cheesecake, but these cups are my favorite because they require no baking. Simply blend, layer, and chill! Trust me, if you love cheesecake, you’ll adore this easy recipe for a quick dessert that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent cheesecake flavor in a portable cup
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor
No baking required – quick and easy to prepare

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The crust of these Strawberry Cheesecake Cups is made with graham cracker crumbs, which provide a sweet, buttery base. Using fresh graham crackers for crumbling can yield a fresher flavor, but store-bought crumbs save time. The melted butter is essential as it binds the crumbs together, so make sure it's completely liquid but not too hot to prevent the mixture from becoming greasy.

When it comes to the filling, the quality of the cream cheese is crucial. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. It's best to let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before beating, ensuring a smooth mix. The powdered sugar is key for sweetness without graininess, while heavy cream adds the lusciousness that makes this dessert feel indulgent.

Assembly and Setting Tips

When assembling the cups, it’s important to spoon the filling gently to prevent disturbing the crust. I recommend using a small offset spatula to smooth the top, achieving an even appearance. If you're making these in advance, you can prepare the crust and filling a day ahead and store them separately until you're ready to assemble. Just remember that the filling needs at least 20 minutes in the fridge to set, but longer is better if possible.

For the strawberry topping, freshness is key. Look for strawberries that are bright red and firm, as they'll offer the best flavor and texture. If the strawberries are particularly tart, the added sugar can enhance their sweetness. This step can be done right before serving to keep the fruit fresh. If you're preparing these cups for an event, consider garnishing with mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Ingredients

For the crust

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

For the filling

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

For the topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of strawberries)

Instructions

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of each cup to form the crust.

Make the filling

In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Assemble the cups

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cup, smoothing the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to set.

Prepare the topping

Just before serving, mix sliced strawberries with sugar if desired. Spoon the fresh strawberries over the chilled cheesecake cups.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, you can use different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for toppings, or mix in some lemon zest into the filling for a citrusy flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings, as they can be prepared a day in advance without compromising their flavor or texture.

If you want to freeze the cheesecake cups, assemble them without the fresh strawberries, as they do not freeze well. Freeze the cups in an airtight container for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and add the strawberry topping just before serving for optimal freshness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake filling appears grainy, it's likely due to under-mixing the cream cheese or using cold cream cheese. Make sure to beat the cream cheese thoroughly until completely smooth before adding the powdered sugar. If you've already mixed the other ingredients and find graininess, consider using an immersion blender to blend the filling until silky smooth.

In some cases, the crust may crumble easily when you try to serve the cups. To ensure a sturdy base, make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the bottoms of the cups. If it's too crumbly still, increase the melted butter slightly, adding a teaspoon at a time until the mixture holds together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cheesecake cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator without the toppings and add the strawberries just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of graham crackers?

You can substitute them with crushed cookies like vanilla wafers or Oreos for a different flavor.

→ How long will these cups last in the fridge?

They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days but can last up to a week if stored properly in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze these cheesecake cups?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change. However, the filling can be frozen separately, and then assembled fresh.