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Easy Firecracker Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

firecracker strawberry cheesecake cups - featured image
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A refreshing summer dessert featuring a crispy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a lightly spiced strawberry topping with a subtle zing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Firecracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, about 3 minutes.
  2. Assemble the Base in Cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each serving cup. Press down firmly to form an even, compact base. Chill the cups in the fridge for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. In a separate bowl, whip chilled heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
  4. Fill the Cups: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in each cup, filling to about ¾ full. Smooth the tops and chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
  5. Prepare the Firecracker Strawberry Topping: Toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate.
  6. Top and Serve: Spoon the strawberry mixture over each cheesecake cup just before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve cold.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for smooth blending. Whip heavy cream to soft peaks to avoid grainy texture. Press crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for desired spice level. Chill cups for at least 30 minutes to allow filling to set. Prepare crust and filling a day ahead for convenience, adding strawberries just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, summer dessert, firecracker strawberry, easy cheesecake cups, quick dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/easy-firecracker-strawberry-cheesecake-cups-recipe-perfect-for-summer-desserts/