Introduction

Strawberry cheesecake cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the convenience of a cupcake. These treats offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a favorite for any occasion.

With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, these cupcakes are sure to impress both family and guests. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make! Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these irresistible strawberry cheesecake cupcakes.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
These crumbs form the base of the cupcakes, providing a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness that mimics traditional cheesecake crust.
⅓ cup granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens both the crust and the filling. It helps balance the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the cupcakes.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together and adds richness to the flavor. It also helps create a tender texture in the crust.
16 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese is the star of the filling, giving it that classic cheesecake flavor and creamy texture that everyone loves.
1 cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar adds sweetness and smoothness to the cream cheese filling, ensuring a Velvety texture that enhances the cupcake experience.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract deepens the flavor profile of the filling, enhancing its richness and providing an aromatic element.
2 large eggs, at room temperature
Eggs are essential for binding the filling ingredients together, adding moisture, and helping the cheesecake to set properly while baking.
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness and a vibrant color contrast that complements the richness of the cheesecake and provides an appealing topping.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the flavor of the cheesecake filling, cutting through the richness and adding a touch of tanginess that balances the dessert.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Preheating the oven ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and at the correct temperature. Lining the muffin tin with cupcake liners simplifies cleanup and allows for easy removal of the cupcakes when they're ready.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.

This mixture creates the crust, so it's important to thoroughly combine the ingredients, ensuring that every crumb is coated in butter and sugar for a cohesive texture.

Step 3: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form an even layer.

Pressing the mixture down firmly is crucial for creating a stable crust that holds together when the cupcakes are baked. This helps to create a satisfying crunch against the creamy filling.

Step 4: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Ensuring that the cream cheese is well beaten will help eliminate any lumps in the filling, creating a silky smooth texture that’s crucial for a good cheesecake.

Step 5: Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated.

This step brings together the flavor base of the cheesecake filling. The sugar sweetens and the lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, enhancing the creamy texture.

Step 6: Beat in eggs, one at a time, until mixture is smooth and creamy.

Adding the eggs one at a time ensures they're fully incorporated, which is essential for a smooth batter. This contributes to a light and fluffy texture in the final product.

Step 7: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crusts in the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.

Properly filling the liners is important to ensure that the cupcakes cook evenly and have a uniform height. Overfilling may cause them to overflow while baking.

Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are slightly jiggly.

Monitoring the baking time is key; cupcakes are done when the edges are firm and the centers remain slightly soft, which will continue to set as they cool.

Step 9: Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Letting them cool in the pan briefly helps prevent the cupcakes from cracking. Transferring them to a wire rack allows them to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

Step 10: Top each cupcake with fresh strawberries before serving.

Adding fresh strawberries not only enhances the visual appeal, but also adds a burst of freshness to each bite, complementing the rich cheesecake flavor beautifully.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes step photo

The Role of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is key to achieving a vibrant and lively flavor in these cupcakes. Their natural sweetness and acidity help balance the richness of the cheesecake filling, making every bite a refreshing experience. Opting for the ripest strawberries ensures maximum flavor, which elevates the overall dessert.

Experiment with Flavors

While strawberries are delicious, feel free to experiment with other fruits or flavors. Blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate ganache can be used as toppings for a twist. Each variation presents a unique taste experience while maintaining the fundamental cheesecake cupcake structure.

Perfect for Every Occasion

These strawberry cheesecake cupcakes are incredibly versatile. They work well for birthdays, picnics, or family gatherings and can be dressed up with whipped cream or served simply as is. Their portion control makes them perfect for hosting, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt of a full slice of cheesecake.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but keep in mind that frozen strawberries will release more moisture, potentially making the topping a bit soggier.

What should I do if my cheesecake filling is too thick?

If the filling is too thick, blend in a little cream or milk to achieve the desired consistency without compromising the flavor.

Is it possible to make mini versions of these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to around 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness as they can bake faster in smaller portions.

Can I add more sugar if I like sweeter cheesecakes?

Certainly! Feel free to increase the powdered sugar in the filling to suit your sweetness preference.

What if my cupcakes cracked on top during baking?

Cracking usually occurs from overmixing or baking at too high a temperature. Aim for a gentle mixing and keep an eye on your oven temperature.

How can I ensure my cupcakes have a smooth top?

Avoid over-beating the batter once you've added the eggs. This helps prevent excess air that can cause cracking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, strawberry cheesecake cupcakes offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can elevate any dessert table. With their easy preparation and stunning appearance, they are sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen.

So gather your ingredients and start baking these delightful treats that blend the classic cheesecake with the fun of a cupcake. Everyone will love them, whether it's a casual family dinner or a special celebration.

Recipe Card

Print Pin