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Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups


  • Author: Zoe McKenney
  • Total Time: 4 hours 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes

Description

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, these Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups are a delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet raspberry. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cheesecake filling, and a beautifully marbled raspberry swirl, these mini cheesecakes are perfect for any occasion. Top them with whipped cream and fresh raspberries for an extra special touch!


Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

For the Raspberry Swirl:

  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Topping (Optional):

  • Whipped cream
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner.
  4. Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Swirl

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down.
  3. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
  3. Beat in egg and sour cream, mixing just until smooth. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Cups

  1. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cheesecake filling over the crusts.
  2. Add small dollops of raspberry sauce on top.
  3. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the raspberry sauce into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecakes

  1. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges are set but the centers have a slight jiggle.
  2. Turn off the oven and let them sit inside for 5 minutes with the door slightly open.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

  1. Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

  1. Top with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
  2. Enjoy your Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes