Description
Sweet summer strawberries mingle with creamy cheesecake cups in this irresistible dessert that promises pure indulgence. Rich graham cracker base and luscious cream cheese filling topped with fresh berries will make you the star of any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
Sweeteners and Stabilizers:
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Flavor Enhancers and Binding Ingredients:
- 0.5 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Extra strawberries (for topping)
- Drizzle of strawberry sauce (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberry compote by combining fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the berries to break down and release their natural juices. Optional: Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry for a more robust consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Create the graham cracker base by thoroughly mixing finely crushed graham crackers with melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand and can hold its shape when pressed.
- Craft the creamy cheesecake filling by whipping cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and free of lumps. Incorporate Greek yogurt and vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. Gently fold in whipped cream to create a light, airy texture.
- Layer the dessert cups by first sprinkling a generous base of graham cracker crumble. Carefully pipe or spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crumbs, creating an even layer. Top with the cooled strawberry compote, allowing the vibrant red sauce to cascade slightly down the sides.
- Refrigerate the cups for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Before serving, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and a sprinkle of remaining graham cracker crumbs for added crunch.
Notes
- Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the recipe celiac-friendly and suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Adjust sugar levels by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a lower-glycemic dessert option.
- Freeze leftover strawberry topping in ice cube trays for quick future use in smoothies or other desserts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg