These individual desserts bring all the flavor of classic cheesecake without the stress. They’re served in cups or jars, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or portion-controlled treats. The layers are simple but look stunning, and the taste? Creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet with a burst of fresh strawberry flavor.
🛒 What You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: fresh strawberries for garnish
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Chill before serving – the cups set better and taste even creamier when cold.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling.
- Make the strawberry topping ahead to let the flavors meld.
- Pipe the cheesecake filling for clean, professional-looking layers.
- Use short, wide jars or small clear cups to show off the beautiful layers.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
- Dessert jars, glasses, or cups
- Piping bag or zip-top bag (optional)
- Measuring cups & spoons
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-free: Use GF graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
- Lighter version: Use low-fat cream cheese and whipped Greek yogurt.
- Berry swap: Try raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for the topping.
- Chocolate crust: Use crushed chocolate wafers or Oreos instead of graham crackers.
⏱️ Make Ahead Tips
- Prepare all layers ahead and assemble up to 1 day before serving.
- Keep tightly covered in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
- Strawberry topping can be made 2–3 days ahead and refrigerated.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Crust
In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
2. Press Crust into Cups
Spoon 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup or jar. Press down gently to form a base. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip cream to stiff peaks. Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
4. Prepare Strawberry Topping
In a small saucepan, heat chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until juicy and slightly thickened. Let cool.
5. Assemble the Cups
Pipe or spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust layer, smoothing the top. Add a spoonful of strawberry topping. Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint if desired.
6. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) before serving.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container or covered jars for up to 3 days.
- Not freezer-friendly (cream cheese and whipped cream texture will change).
💬 Final Thoughts
These strawberry cheesecake cups are the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and fun to eat. They’re easy enough for a weeknight treat and fancy enough for a celebration. Make them ahead, dress them up, and serve them with a smile—because who doesn’t love their own little cheesecake?
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