Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cups are a delightful, no-bake dessert that combines the freshness of strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy graham cracker base. Next, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to make this easy and delicious treat.
INGREDIENTS
- Graham crackers: 1 cup, crushed, to form the crunchy base for the cups.
- Freeze-dried strawberries: 1/2 cup, chopped, to add an extra layer of strawberry flavor and texture.
- Butter: 1/4 cup, melted, to bind the graham cracker and strawberry base together.
- Cream cheese: 12 oz, softened, for the creamy cheesecake filling.
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness and a smooth texture in the filling.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, to enhance the flavor of the cheesecake.
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup, whipped to stiff peaks, for a light and airy texture.
- Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, diced, for a burst of freshness in the cheesecake mixture.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, chopped freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of each cup, forming a firm base.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- 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, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- Step 4:
- Fold the diced fresh strawberries into the cheesecake mixture for a burst of freshness and flavor.
- Step 5:
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker base in each cup, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Step 6:
- Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours, or until set and firm.
- Step 7:
- Before serving, garnish with additional crushed graham crackers and freeze-dried strawberries for an extra crunch and decorative touch.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cups chilled for the best texture and flavor. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a refreshing treat on a warm day.
- Garnish each cup with a fresh strawberry slice or a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for an added pop of color and flavor before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cups maintain their freshness and flavor when stored properly.
- These cups can also be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for entertaining or meal prep.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra tangy flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the cheesecake mixture.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, use a piping bag to layer the cheesecake mixture neatly over the graham cracker base.
- Experiment with different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a variation of this recipe.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Ina Garten suggests using homemade whipped cream for a fresher, creamier texture in the cheesecake filling.
- Chef Martha Stewart recommends toasting the graham crackers briefly before mixing to enhance their flavor.
- Chef Yotam Ottolenghi advises incorporating a hint of balsamic glaze with strawberries for a unique, elevated twist.