Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These No-Bake Cheesecake Cups are the ultimate easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for anyone who loves cheesecake but doesn’t want the hassle of baking. The crust is perfectly crunchy, the filling is light and creamy, and the topping options are endless, making it a fun and customizable dessert. They’re simple to prepare, but the end result is a luxurious dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. Plus, the individual cups make for an adorable and convenient way to serve cheesecake!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Fresh fruit or chocolate sauce for topping (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Distribute the Crust: Spoon the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of serving cups or jars. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create an even crust. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Fill the Cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the prepared crusts in each cup, smoothing it down with a spatula.
- Chill: Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow them to set properly.
- Add Toppings: Once set, top with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or any toppings of your choice before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Toppings: Top your cheesecake cups with fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or mango slices for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle chocolate sauce over the cheesecake, or add mini chocolate chips or crushed cookies for added texture.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts on top for a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
- Flavored Cheesecake: Add a bit of lemon zest or fruit puree (like strawberry or blueberry) into the filling to infuse it with a unique flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These cheesecake cups can be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Since this is a no-bake recipe, no reheating is required. Just enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cheesecake cups are perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, they need to chill for at least 4 hours, so they’re a great make-ahead dessert.
3. How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?
Be gentle when folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. The key is to fold slowly to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream.
4. Can I use light cream cheese or whipped cream?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese for a lower-fat option, but keep in mind that it may slightly affect the texture. Whipped cream can also be replaced with whipped topping if desired.
5. Can I skip the powdered sugar?
While powdered sugar helps sweeten the cheesecake filling and ensures it remains smooth, you can substitute it with regular granulated sugar if needed, though the texture may be slightly different.
6. Can I make these without sugar?
Yes, you can make a sugar-free version using sugar substitutes like stevia, monk fruit, or any preferred sugar alternative.
7. Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer?
Yes, a stand mixer works perfectly for making the cheesecake filling. Just be sure to start on a low speed to avoid splattering.
8. How long can I keep the cheesecake cups in the fridge?
You can store the cheesecake cups in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on keeping them longer, it’s best to freeze them.
9. How do I know when the cheesecake is fully set?
After chilling for at least 4 hours, the cheesecake should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you scoop it out of the cup.
10. Can I make these in mini sizes?
Yes, you can use smaller cups or jars to make mini versions of these cheesecakes. Just make sure to adjust the portion sizes accordingly.
Conclusion
No-Bake Cheesecake Cups are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With their creamy, rich filling, buttery crust, and endless topping options, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. They’re easy to prepare, require no baking, and can be made in advance, making them the ideal treat for busy days or special celebrations. Whether you top them with fruit, chocolate, or a simple drizzle of caramel, these cheesecake cups will be a hit every time!
No-Bake Cheesecake Cups: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 4
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No-Bake Cheesecake Cups are a creamy, rich, and customizable dessert with a crunchy graham cracker crust and smooth cheesecake filling. They are quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, offering a fun and easy way to enjoy cheesecake without the hassle of baking.
Ingredients
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Fresh fruit or chocolate sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Spoon the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of serving cups or jars. Press down firmly to create an even crust. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake filling on top of the prepared crust in each cup. Smooth down with a spatula.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Top with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or any topping of your choice before serving.
Notes
Try adding flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.
For a more decadent treat, add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top.
You can also add a layer of fruit puree in the middle of the cheesecake filling for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
