Description
These Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, tangy lemon, and sweet raspberry flavors. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a stunning raspberry swirl, these mini cheesecakes are individual-sized for easy serving and perfect for any occasion. Whether for a celebration or a special treat, these cheesecake cups are as delicious as they are beautiful!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- ½ cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease lightly. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly coated. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into each cupcake liner and press down firmly. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- Prepare the Raspberry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and thicken. Strain the sauce using a fine mesh strainer and let cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Cups: Spoon the cheesecake filling into each muffin cup, over the crust, filling about ¾ full. Drop 1-2 teaspoons of raspberry sauce on top and swirl gently with a toothpick.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Top with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce before serving. Enjoy chilled!
Notes
- Different Fruit: Use strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a variety of fruit swirls.
- Crust Alternatives: Try vanilla wafer crumbs, biscuits, or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Extra Toppings: Top with whipped cream, extra graham cracker crumbs, or lemon zest for added texture and flavor.