Rich, creamy, and bursting with sweet-tart berry flavor, No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are an absolute showstopper at any gathering—or perfect for a solo treat when you need to satisfy your dessert cravings without turning on the oven. Think of layers of buttery graham cracker crumbs, fluffy cheesecake filling, and tangy raspberries swirled with glossy jam, all nestled in adorable cups or jars. This is the kind of dessert that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy days, special occasions, and everything in between.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups lies in their simple, everyday ingredients—each one playing a starring role in creating luscious texture and unforgettable flavor. It’s a short list, but trust me: quality ingredients really make all the difference here!
- Graham cracker crumbs: These give your cheesecake cups a classic, buttery-sweet foundation that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layer above.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter brings the crumbs together, allowing you to press the crust into the cups for crunch in every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch adds extra sweetness and helps hold the crust together.
- Cream cheese, softened: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for the smoothest, fluffiest filling.
- Powdered sugar: This dissolves seamlessly into the cream cheese, sweetening and thickening the cheesecake layer without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and complexity to the creamy filling.
- Heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks: Folding this in creates an impossibly light, mousse-like texture that feels utterly decadent.
- Fresh raspberries: They’re the main event here, adding color, freshness, and that irresistible sweet-tart zing.
- Raspberry jam: Mixing this with the berries gives you a glossy, intensely flavored sauce that amplifies the raspberry element.
- Extra raspberries for garnish: Don’t skip the final flourish—it adds a beautiful pop of color and just the right note of freshness.
How to Make No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups
Step 1: Build the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Stir them together until the mixture looks like wet sand—this ensures that every bite has the perfect level of crunch and richness. Scoop the crumb mixture evenly into 6 small cups or jars, and give it a gentle but firm press to create a solid crust layer. This step is all about building that classic cheesecake base with a no-bake twist.
Step 2: Whip up the Cheesecake Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is velvety smooth and creamy. Don’t rush here—a few extra seconds of beating makes a world of difference, getting rid of any lumps and aerating the filling. Next, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream. This step takes your cheesecake to a whole new level of lightness and helps it hold its airy, mousse-like texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cups with Cheesecake Filling
Using a spoon or a piping bag, transfer the cheesecake mixture to each prepared cup, dividing it evenly. I love the look of a piped swirl, but spooning it in works perfectly, too! Smooth out the tops so that you have a perfectly even canvas for the berries—a simple touch that makes them look irresistible.
Step 4: Make the Raspberry Topping
In a small bowl, mash the fresh raspberries with the raspberry jam. This duo creates a luscious, ruby-red sauce that’s spoonable and packed with maximum berry flavor. Don’t worry if it’s a bit chunky—those bursts of whole berry will taste even better against the creamy cheesecake layer!
Step 5: Finish and Chill
Spoon the raspberry mixture generously over each cheesecake cup, letting the berries and sauce gently cascade over the top. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries for that final, jewel-like touch. Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 1 hour—this helps the flavors meld and gives the texture time to set so each spoonful is swoon-worthy.
How to Serve No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups
Garnishes
When it comes to serving No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups, there’s no such thing as too many toppings! A handful of fresh raspberries is the classic finishing touch, but you can take things up a notch with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of extra raspberry jam for added shine. Shaved white chocolate also adds a sweet and elegant twist.
Side Dishes
These cheesecake cups are so rich and creamy, they truly shine solo—but if you want to turn dessert into a memorable spread, pair them with a tray of simple lemon shortbread or sugar cookies. For a more festive occasion, serve alongside a fresh berry salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The tangy berries complement all sorts of sweet accompaniments!
Creative Ways to Present
No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are as versatile as they are gorgeous! Serve them in mini mason jars or clear glasses for a rustic-chic look, or layer them in elegant stemless wine glasses for a dinner party upgrade. If you’re hosting a crowd, assemble the ingredients in one big dish and let guests scoop their own servings. For the ultimate personalized touch, try adding mini chalkboard labels or fun colored spoons that match your event theme.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any extras, these No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups keep beautifully in the fridge. Cover each cup with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid, and store for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they sit, with the berry sauce soaking into the fluffy cheesecake layer—absolute heaven by day two!
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the assembled cheesecake cups without the berry topping. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to serve, transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight, and add the raspberry topping just before serving. This trick is a lifesaver for meal-prepping desserts ahead of a busy week or holiday dinner.
Reheating
No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are truly best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no reheating required (or even recommended). Simply remove from the fridge, add any extra garnishes if you like, and dig in—dessert doesn’t get easier than that!
FAQs
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen raspberries, be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing with the jam. The flavor will still be vibrant and delicious—just note that the topping may be a little saucier than with fresh berries.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
If you forgot to take your cream cheese out ahead of time, unwrap it and microwave in 15-second bursts until just soft (not melted). This helps it blend smoothly with the powdered sugar and vanilla for a lump-free cheesecake base.
Can I make No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups in advance?
Yes! In fact, making these cheesecake cups a day in advance gives the flavors more time to meld and means you can enjoy dessert with zero stress. Just hold off on garnishing until right before serving for the freshest look.
Can I substitute another type Dessert
Definitely—this recipe is super flexible! Try strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep the ratios the same, and you’ll have delicious, fruity cheesecake cups tailored to your tastes.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free cookie or graham-style alternative. All the other ingredients in these No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can join in on dessert!
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress, you have to try these No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups. They’re the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity—all with zero oven time required. Make a batch for your next occasion or just because, and let this treat become your new go-to favorite!
Print
No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Cups that are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. This easy dessert is great for entertaining or a special treat for yourself!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
Raspberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
- Extra raspberries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Graham Cracker Crust: In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press mixture into 6 small cups/jars.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream. Spoon or pipe over crusts.
- Create Raspberry Topping: Mash raspberries and jam, creating a sauce. Spoon over cheesecake layer. Garnish with raspberries. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- You can swap raspberries for strawberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
- For a zestier taste, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream cheese mix.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
