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
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each liner.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Raspberry Swirl
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
- Beat in egg and sour cream, mixing just until smooth. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Cups
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cheesecake filling over the crusts.
- Add small dollops of raspberry sauce on top.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the raspberry sauce into the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecakes
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges are set but the centers have a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let them sit inside for 5 minutes with the door slightly open.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
- Let the cheesecakes cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
- Top with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Enjoy your Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 18 minutes