No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

Name: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 cups
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup crushed graham crackers; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons sugar

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I just adore these No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups! They come together effortlessly and make for the perfect cool treat on a warm day. The creamy cheesecake filling paired with the bright, juicy strawberries is a dream combination. Plus, there's no need for an oven, which means I can whip them up quickly and enjoy them even sooner. Whether it’s a gathering or a quiet night in, these delightful cups are sure to please everyone. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:13:26.625Z

Making No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups has become one of my favorite summer activities. I love how the flavors meld together without needing to turn on the oven. For the best outcome, I recommend letting the cups chill for at least an hour in the fridge; this allows the flavors to truly integrate and the texture to firm up just right.

One special tip I've discovered is to use fresh strawberries when possible. Their sweetness and vibrant color elevate the entire dessert, making it visually stunning and delicious. The combination of the creamy filling with the tart strawberries is simply irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich creaminess balanced by fresh strawberries
No baking required for easy preparation
Perfectly portioned for sharing or indulging your sweet tooth

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality cream cheese is crucial for the optimal texture of your cheesecake filling. I recommend choosing a full-fat option for richer flavor and creaminess. Low-fat alternatives can result in a grainy texture, which doesn't blend well with the whipped cream. Checking the expiration date is essential, too; fresh cream cheese will yield the best results, ensuring a smooth and delightful dessert.

Fresh strawberries are another key component that can elevate your No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are firm, vibrant red, and fragrant. Avoid any that have soft spots or signs of mold to guarantee the freshest topping that enhances the overall flavor. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can substitute them with thawed frozen strawberries, but be mindful that the texture may be slightly different.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in your cheesecake filling is vital. Make sure to beat the cream cheese thoroughly until it's smooth and free of lumps before adding the powdered sugar and vanilla. This process ensures there are no unpleasant surprises in your finished dessert. Overmixing after incorporating the whipped cream can lead to a dense filling, so fold gently until just combined to maintain that light, airy structure.

When preparing the crust, pressing down firmly but gently can help prevent it from crumbling when served. If your cups are too shallow, consider making a slightly smaller portion of the filling to ensure a balanced ratio with the crust and toppings. A good rule of thumb is to fill the cups about two-thirds full with the cheesecake mixture before layering the strawberries.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups are perfect for make-ahead occasions. You can prepare the cheesecake filling and the crust the day before serving. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and layer them just before serving to keep the freshness of the strawberries intact. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover each cup tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to maintain freshness. Be aware that the strawberries may start to release juices after a day, so it’s best to consume them as soon as possible for the optimal texture and taste. Freezing is not recommended, as the creaminess of the filling and the texture of the strawberries may degrade during the freezing and thawing process.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crust:

1 cup crushed graham crackers
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar

Directions

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Divide the mixture evenly among serving cups, pressing down to create a firm crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.

Layer the Dessert

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cup. Layer the fresh strawberries, which have been mixed with sugar and lemon juice, on top of the filling.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least one hour to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, garnish with a mint leaf or drizzle a little strawberry sauce over the top before serving.

Variations to Try

You can easily customize the flavors in these cheesecake cups by incorporating different fruits. For a tropical twist, consider using mango or pineapple instead of strawberries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if the fruit is particularly sweet or tart to maintain the balance of flavors in your dessert. Pureed fruit can also be swirled into the cheesecake filling for an extra flavor boost.

Experimenting with the crust is also an option! While graham crackers are classic, you can use crushed Oreos for a chocolatey variation. Simply replace the crust ingredients while keeping the same proportions, and you'll have a completely different dessert experience that pairs well with strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

For added flair, consider garnishing the cups with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts right before serving. Mint leaves can also add a touch of freshness and color that brightens up the presentation. If you're feeling creative, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top for an indulgent touch that complements the cheesecake flavor beautifully.

These cups are perfect for individual servings at parties. For a fun touch, set up a DIY cheesecake cup station where guests can layer their toppings according to their preferences. Providing options like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or other berries can make the experience interactive and memorable while ensuring everyone gets to enjoy their favorite flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh ones will enhance the flavor and texture!

→ How long can I store these cheesecake cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a different flavor, but the texture may vary.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or a different type of crust.