Save Celebrate love with these romantic Valentines Day Strawberry Cheesecake Cups. These creamy, no-bake treats are layered with fresh, juicy strawberries and a buttery graham cracker crust, making them the perfect effortless dessert for a sweet and memorable celebration.
Save These charming individual portions are not only delicious but also highly convenient. Since they require a few hours of chilling time, you can prepare them in advance and focus entirely on your Valentine when it's time to serve.
Ingredients
- For the Crust: 1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs, 3 tbsp (40 g) unsalted butter (melted), 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (cold)
- For the Strawberry Layer: 1 cup (150 g) fresh strawberries (diced), 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp lemon juice
- For Garnish: 6 whole strawberries (halved), optional heart-shaped sprinkles or white chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tbsp sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Step 2
- Spoon 2 tbsp of the crust mixture into the bottom of each serving cup. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
- Step 3
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Step 4
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fluffy.
- Step 5
- Divide cheesecake filling evenly among the cups, spooning it over the crust, and smooth the tops.
- Step 6
- In a small bowl, toss diced strawberries with 1 tbsp sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes to macerate.
- Step 7
- Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer in each cup.
- Step 8
- Chill cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Step 9
- Before serving, garnish each cup with a strawberry half and optional sprinkles or white chocolate shavings.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling. Use very cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl to reach stiff peaks more effectively. Pressing the crust down firmly ensures it stays intact when you take your first spoonful.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies. For a different flavor profile, try adding a dash of lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture, or use a mix of raspberries and blueberries instead of strawberries.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these elegant cheesecake cups in clear glassware to showcase the beautiful layers. They pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling rosé or a light, fruity white wine, making them a sophisticated end to any romantic meal.
Save With their velvety texture and fresh berry flavor, these Valentines Day Strawberry Cheesecake Cups are a simple yet impressive way to show your love. Enjoy every bite of this classic, sweet indulgence.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use different berries?
Yes, raspberries, blueberries, or a berry mix can be substituted to add variety and different flavors.
- → How long should I chill the cups?
Chill the cups for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly and develop a smooth texture.
- → What can replace graham crackers for the crust?
Digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies work well as alternatives for the crust base.
- → Is it possible to add extra flavor?
Adding a dash of lemon zest to the filling mixture enhances the brightness and complements the strawberries.
- → What are suitable drink pairings?
Sparking rosé or fruity white wines pair beautifully, balancing the creamy sweetness with refreshing notes.