Dreamy Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

Enchanting Dreamy Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe: Sweet Little Joys!

Decadent and creamy cheesecake cupcakes elevate dessert time into a moment of pure bliss.

These delightful treats pack all the rich flavors of classic cheesecake into an adorable handheld size.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of smooth cream cheese and delicate cake base.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with foolproof techniques that even novice bakers can master.

You’ll love how effortlessly these cupcakes come together in your kitchen.

The smooth texture and delicate crumb make these cupcakes irresistible for any occasion.

Prepare to indulge in a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal

Servings: 12

Easy Cheesecake Cupcake Ingredients

For Crust Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, buttery foundation with delightful crunch and traditional cheesecake texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
  • Melted Butter: Creates a rich, golden binding agent that helps the crust hold its shape.
For Creamy Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Essential for creating smooth, tangy cheesecake base with luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Sugar: Balances the tanginess of cream cheese and adds delicate sweetness.
  • Eggs: Act as crucial binding agent that helps set the filling and provides structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, comforting aromatic notes.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes extra richness and helps create silky, soft texture.
For Topping:
  • Fresh Berries: Offer bright, refreshing contrast to rich cheesecake and provide vibrant color.
  • Whipped Cream: Adds light, airy finish with delicate sweetness that complements creamy base.

Tools for Cheesecake in Cup Sizes

  • Muffin Tin: 12-cup standard size for perfect individual cheesecakes.
  • Paper Liners: Essential for easy removal and clean serving.
  • Mixing Bowl: Medium-sized for combining graham cracker crust ingredients.
  • Measuring Tablespoon: Precise tool for portioning crust mixture.
  • Spatula or Spoon: To mix and press down crust ingredients.
  • Oven: For baking cupcakes at the specified temperature.

Instructions That Make It Foolproof

  • Prepare Graham Cracker Base

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with melted butter and sugar. Create a deliciously crispy foundation for your cupcake treats.

  • Form Crust Layers

Distribute the crumbly mixture evenly into muffin liners, pressing firmly to create a solid bottom layer. Pack it down to ensure a compact base.

  • Quick Crust Baking

Pop the muffin tin into a preheated oven at 325°F. Bake briefly to set the graham cracker foundation, giving it a golden, toasty essence.

  • Whip Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Blend cream cheese until silky smooth, mixing in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Ensure no lumps remain for a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

  • Pour and Distribute Filling

Gently spoon the luscious cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Fill each liner almost to the top, creating perfect individual desserts.

  • Bake to Perfection

Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake until the centers are just set but still slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy, decadent texture.

  • Cool and Chill

Allow cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours. This helps them set and intensifies their rich, tangy flavor.

  • Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Enjoy these delightful handheld cheesecake treats chilled.

Flavor Variations to Make These Cupcakes Yours

  • Perfect Baking Technique: Press graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that won't crumble when eating.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare cheesecake cupcakes up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for convenient serving.
  • Dairy-Free Twist: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and use vegan butter for a lactose-free version that still tastes creamy and delicious.
  • Flavor Adventure: Experiment with different mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or crushed oreos in the cheesecake batter to create unique flavor combinations that will surprise and delight guests.
  • Temperature Tips: Always ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter that bakes evenly and looks professionally made.

How to Serve These Minis with Big Flavor

  • Cupcake Companions: Pair these delightful cheesecake cupcakes with fresh berries for a burst of fruity freshness.
  • Flavor Fusion: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce or caramel over the top to create an indulgent dessert experience.
  • Whipped Wonder: Top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for extra texture and visual appeal.
  • Sweet Sidekick: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small glass of dessert wine to elevate the entire dessert moment.

Keeping Cheesecake Cupcakes Fresh and Firm

  • Fresh Batch Strategy: Prepare cupcakes within 2-3 days of planned serving for optimal taste and texture.
  • Refrigeration Wisdom: Store these creamy delights in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them cool and preventing moisture loss.
  • Freezing Technique: Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They'll maintain quality for 2-3 months when frozen properly.
  • Quick Serving Tip: Remove frozen cupcakes from the freezer 2-3 hours before serving, allowing them to thaw gently in the refrigerator for the best flavor and consistency.
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Dreamy Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

Dreamy Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Delightful Easy Cheesecake Cupcakes bring creamy indulgence to classic dessert lovers. Compact portable treats offer rich cream cheese flavor with simple graham cracker crust that you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 eggs, large
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsps granulated sugar
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 crackers)
  • 4 tbsps unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Crust Preparation: Blend graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter into a uniform, slightly damp mixture that holds together when pressed.
  2. Base Layering: Gently press one tablespoon of crumb mixture into each muffin liner, creating a compact, even foundation with uniform thickness.
  3. Initial Baking: Position the muffin tin in a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven, toasting the graham cracker bases for approximately 5 minutes until they acquire a delicate golden hue.
  4. Filling Creation: Whip cream cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain in the mixture.
  5. Cupcake Assembly: Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked graham cracker crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full to allow room for potential rising.
  6. Final Baking: Return the muffin tin to the 325°F (163°C) oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, watching for slight wobbling in the center that indicates perfect cheesecake consistency.
  7. Cooling Process: Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set and enhance flavor development.
  8. Garnishing: Optional – Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving chilled.

Notes

  • Prevent Cracking Technique: Press graham cracker crust gently but firmly to avoid air pockets, which can cause uneven baking and potential cracks in the cheesecake surface.
  • Temperature Control: Allow cream cheese ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, lump-free batter and consistent texture throughout the cupcakes.
  • Moisture Management: Use a water bath or place a shallow pan of water in the oven during baking to create humid environment, preventing cheesecake from drying out and cracking.
  • Cooling Strategy: After baking, let cheesecake cupcakes cool gradually at room temperature, then refrigerate for minimum 2 hours to help them set perfectly and develop rich, creamy consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 16 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Jenna Hartley

Jenna Hartley

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

  • Recipe development with a focus on single-dish meals.
  • Fusion of traditional and modern Australian cuisines.
  • Food styling and photography for digital platforms.​

Education

Box Hill Institute, Melbourne

  • Degree: Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management
  • Focus: Specialized in practical food and beverage service, responsible alcohol and hygiene compliance, legal risk management, and hands‑on experience in a simulated restaurant environment.

William Angliss Institute, Melbourne

  • Program: Certificate IV in Patisserie
  • Focus: Specialized in pastry and bakery techniques, cookery and specialty food preparation, recipe planning and costing, commercial kitchen operations, sustainable and inclusive work practices, food safety and hygiene compliance, and workplace health and safety.

Jenna is the heart of Picture Perfect Meals, turning simple ingredients into beautiful, easy‑to‑make dishes. 

Growing up around family meals in Melbourne, she trained at Box Hill Institute and then perfected her pastry skills at William Angliss Institute. She loves mixing classic Australian flavors with fresh ideas to keep cooking fun and stress‑free.

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