Print

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Cups Recipe with Perfect Strawberry Topping

easy no-bake cheesecake cups - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake cheesecake cup dessert topped with a fresh, bright strawberry topping that is perfect for hot days and any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, crushed)
  • 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thicker topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of this crust mixture into each serving cup. Press firmly using the back of a spoon or your fingers to form an even layer. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling (15 minutes): In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy—no lumps! In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in three additions, folding carefully to keep it light and airy.
  3. Fill the Cups (5 minutes): Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust layer in each cup, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and place the cups in the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours — this helps the filling set perfectly.
  4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping (10 minutes): While the cheesecake cups chill, place strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly (about 7-8 minutes). If you want a thicker topping, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook another minute until glossy.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Let the strawberry topping cool completely, then spoon over each cheesecake cup just before serving. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice or a mint leaf if you’re feeling fancy!

Notes

If cream cheese isn’t softened enough, microwave for 10 seconds to soften. Be gentle folding whipped cream to keep filling light and airy. Chill crust and filling properly for best texture. Cook strawberry topping low and slow to avoid burning and preserve color. Can substitute ingredients for dairy-free or gluten-free versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, cheesecake cups, strawberry topping, easy dessert, quick dessert, summer dessert, no oven dessert