Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 38 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cheesecake cups
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.