Description
These Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups offer a delightful combination of creamy lemon cheesecake with a sweet and tangy raspberry swirl, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly portioned for easy serving, they are a refreshing and elegant dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Raspberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries and sugar over medium heat. Cook until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Press the sauce through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds, then let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Spoon a small amount of the cooled raspberry sauce on top of each cheesecake cup and use a toothpick to gently swirl it into the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set and slightly jiggle when the pan is shaken. Let the cheesecake cups cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- The raspberry sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Chilling the cheesecake cups thoroughly helps them set perfectly and enhances the flavors.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.