No Bake Cheesecake Cups are creamy, dreamy treats that require no oven time! Made with cream cheese and fluffy whipped cream, they’re perfectly sweet and oh-so-simple.
These little cups are a hit at parties and make great snacks. I love how you can add your favorite toppings—fruits or chocolate sauce! Easy to make and even easier to eat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give a classic cheesecake flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using crushed almond flour or gluten-free cookies instead. Both will create a tasty base!
Cream Cheese: Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can swap in Greek yogurt, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds a light and fluffy texture. If you want a lower-fat option, you could use coconut cream instead, but it will give a different taste. Try it if you’re a coconut fan!
Cherry Pie Filling: While cherries are classic, feel free to use other toppings like strawberries, blueberries, or even chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit is also a good choice for a healthier option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Cream Cheese Mixture?
Getting the cream cheese mixture just right is key for a smooth cheesecake. Start with softened cream cheese; this makes it easier to blend. Here’s how to ensure a creamy mix:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat until smooth, with no lumps.
- When folding in the whipped cream, do it gently. This keeps the mixture airy and light, perfect for cheesecake cups.
How to Make No Bake Cheesecake Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Topping:
- 1 can cherry pie filling (or desired fruit topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours in the fridge to set. So, you can whip them up quickly and allow them to chill while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are nicely coated and look like wet sand. This mixture will be your delicious crust!
2. Assemble the Crust Layers:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture and spoon it into the bottom of each serving cup. Press down gently with the back of a spoon to make a firm crust layer at the bottom.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy—this will be the rich filling for your cheesecake cups.
4. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This means when you pull the whisk out, the cream will hold its shape. Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s all combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want it fluffy!
5. Fill the Cups:
Using a spoon, carefully fill each cheesecake cup with the cream cheese mixture, almost to the top. You want them to look generous and indulgent!
6. Add the Topping:
Finally, top each cheesecake cup with a big spoonful of cherry pie filling or your favorite fruit topping. This adds a beautiful finish and extra deliciousness.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the cups with plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your yummy no bake cheesecake cups!
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits for a different flavor. Just ensure the cookie crumbs are combined with the same amount of melted butter and sugar for optimal consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheesecake Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods!
Can I Make These Cheesecake Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare these cheesecake cups a day in advance! Just make sure to add the fruit topping right before serving to keep the crust and cheesecake fresh and prevent sogginess.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream on hand, you can substitute it with whipped topping like Cool Whip. However, for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work well—just chill a can of coconut milk overnight, scoop out the solid cream, and whip until fluffy!
