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Party Dessert That Wows Every Guest - No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the cheesecake filling: 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional but brightens flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
  • For the strawberry topping: 2 cups diced fresh strawberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • To serve: Fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until it looks like wet sand. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons into each small glass or jar. Press down gently with the back of a spoon. Chill while you make the filling.
  • Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, beat heavy cream to medium-stiff peaks. Don’t overbeat. Set aside.
  • Beat the cream cheese: In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  • Fold together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions until no streaks remain. Keep it light and airy.
  • Fill the cups: Pipe or spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, leaving space on top for the strawberry layer. Smooth the surface. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours (4+ for best set).
  • Make the strawberry topping: In a small saucepan, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Cook 3–5 minutes until juicy. For a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer 30 seconds. Cool completely.
  • Top and serve: Spoon cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake cups. Garnish with fresh slices and mint if you like. Serve cold.