Ingredients

• Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup
• Cream cheese: 250g (8.8 oz), softened
• Sugar: 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Fresh strawberries: 2 cups, chopped
• Graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup
• Melted butter: 1/4 cup

Method

1. Prepare the Strawberries:

• Chop fresh strawberries and place them in a bowl.
• Add a tablespoon of sugar, mix well, and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Make the Graham Cracker Base:

• Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and smashing them with a rolling pin.
• Combine the crumbs with melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

• In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
• In another bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep the filling light and airy.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

• Start by layering 1-2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumbs as the base in each cup or serving dish.
• Add a layer of the chopped strawberries on top of the crumbs.
• Follow with a layer of the cream cheese mixture.
• Repeat these layers until the cups are filled, ending with the cream cheese mixture on top.

5. Chill the Dessert:

• Place the assembled cups in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Possible Questions About This Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of fruit?
   • Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just adjust the sugar level according to the sweetness of the fruit.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, these cheesecake cups can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?
   • Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese. However, the texture and richness might differ slightly.
4. What if I don’t have graham crackers?
   • You can use other types of cookies, such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers, as a substitute for graham crackers. Adjust the amount of butter as needed.
5. Can I freeze these cheesecake cups?
   • While it’s possible to freeze them, the texture might change slightly after thawing. For best results, enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Sugars: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg
• Sodium: 160 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the assembled cheesecake cups in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. Cover them with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent them from absorbing other flavors.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze them, wrap each cup tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Tips for Making the Best

1. Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, ripe strawberries. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
2. Check Consistency: Ensure that the graham cracker crumbs are well-coated with melted butter for a crumbly yet cohesive base. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
3. Soften Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for a smoother and easier mixing process. This helps achieve a creamy texture in the filling.
4. Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks for a light and airy texture. Overwhipping can make the cream grainy, so stop as soon as peaks form.
5. Gentle Folding: When combining the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture, fold gently to maintain the light texture. Overmixing can deflate the whipped cream.
6. Layer Evenly: For the best presentation and flavor balance, make sure each layer is evenly spread. This ensures that each bite has a consistent taste and texture.
7. Chill Properly: Allow the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the filling set properly. This step is crucial for the right consistency.
8. Personalize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or additional fruit slices, to make the dessert your own.

Enjoy your No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups, a delightful and effortless treat perfect for any occasion!

Conclusion

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups are a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries. With a buttery graham cracker base and a light, airy filling, these cups are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal gatherings. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, this dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors in every delightful bite!