Get ready for the ultimate treat that’s as easy as it is delicious! These No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are everything you want in a dessert: light, refreshing, creamy, and a little bit indulgent. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet raspberries is a match made in dessert heaven, and the best part? No oven required! This dessert comes together in minutes, and you’ll be left with the kind of cheesecake that tastes like it took hours to perfect. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.
Why You’ll Love No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making these for a laid-back weeknight treat, a party, or just because you deserve something sweet, this dessert is as versatile as it is mouthwatering. Here’s why it’s a fan favorite:
No Baking Required: Because who wants to wait around for a cheesecake to bake when you can just mix, layer, and chill? It’s the easy way to enjoy cheesecake without the hassle.
Bright, Zesty Flavors: The lemon provides the perfect zing, while the raspberries add a pop of sweetness. Together, they create a dessert that’s refreshing and satisfying without being overwhelming.
Perfectly Portion-Controlled: These individual cups are the perfect size for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging. They’re just the right amount of creamy, fruity, and oh-so-delicious.
Super Quick & Easy: If you love easy-to-make recipes that still wow your guests (or yourself), this one’s for you. No complicated steps, just simple, delicious layers that come together in a flash.
Kid-Approved: Whether you’ve got picky eaters at home or you’re hosting little ones, these cheesecake cups are sure to please. Bonus points for being fun to assemble!
Ingredients
Let’s talk about what goes into these little cups of heaven. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few ingredients to create a flavor-packed treat.
Cream Cheese: The smooth, tangy base that gives these cheesecake cups their creamy texture. Softened cream cheese is key to a smooth, lump-free filling.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy, light whipped cream helps give the filling that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes you want to come back for seconds.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens things up without the graininess of regular sugar. It’s the key to a smooth, perfectly sweet filling.
Lemon Zest & Lemon Juice: The zesty lemon adds that bright, refreshing citrus flavor that makes these cups feel like a summer celebration in every bite.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a little warmth to balance out the tartness of the lemon and raspberry. It’s the flavor that ties everything together.
Raspberries: Fresh, ripe raspberries bring that burst of fruity sweetness that pairs so beautifully with the tangy lemon.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base of these cheesecake cups is a simple graham cracker crust that adds a little crunch to balance the creamy filling.
(Note: Full ingredient details, including measurements, are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into how easy it is to make these No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups:
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs with a little melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Spoon a little bit of the mixture into the bottom of each cup, pressing down gently to create a firm base. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Gradually add the lemon juice and continue mixing until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Layer the Cups
Spoon the cheesecake filling into each graham cracker crust, smoothing the top. You want that creamy goodness to be evenly distributed. Top with fresh raspberries, pressing them lightly into the filling.
Step 4: Chill & Set
Place the cups in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let them set. This is the hardest part—waiting! But it’s so worth it when you take that first bite.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once chilled, serve these little beauties as is or garnish with extra lemon zest, fresh mint, or more raspberries. They’re ready to impress!
How to Serve No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups
These cheesecake cups are perfect on their own, but here are a few serving ideas to make them even more fun:
- Garnish with Mint: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing touch.
- Top with More Raspberries: Extra berries on top for even more fruity flavor.
- Serve with a Cup of Tea: Pair with a hot cup of herbal tea for a delightful dessert moment.
Additional Tips
Make Them Ahead: These cheesecake cups are perfect for prepping in advance. Make them the night before, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you are.
Experiment with Toppings: Swap out raspberries for strawberries or blueberries, or even drizzle some honey on top for an extra sweet touch.
Keep It Cool: Store leftovers in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. These cups are a great make-ahead treat for busy weeks!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these without a crust?
Sure! Skip the graham cracker base for a lighter option, or substitute with crushed cookies or granola for a fun twist.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best served chilled!
Q3: Can I freeze these?
While these cheesecake cups are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q4: Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work just as well! Just thaw them out and drain any excess liquid before topping your cheesecake cups.
Q5: What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh juice really elevates the flavor. Fresh zest is also a must!
Q6: Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s well-whipped and stable before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
Q7: Can I double the recipe?
You can definitely double the recipe—just be sure you have enough cups or serving dishes to hold all the deliciousness!
Q8: Can I use a different fruit?
Absolutely! Blueberries, strawberries, or even peaches would be delicious in place of raspberries.
Q9: Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese and whipped cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or vegan cream cheese.
Q10: How long do I need to chill them?
At least 2 hours to let the filling set properly, but if you have time, chilling them overnight makes them even better!
Conclusion
These No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are the perfect little indulgence—refreshing, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dessert is sure to impress anyone you share it with (or just yourself, if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers). So go ahead, treat yourself to something special—you deserve it!
PrintNo Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups
These No Bake Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Cups are a sweet and tangy dessert perfect for any occasion! With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh raspberries on top, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re super easy to make with no oven required!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None (Chill time: 2-3 hours)
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 6 servings (depending on the size of your cups) 1x
- Category: Dessert, No Bake, Easy Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
-
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – provides the buttery, crumbly base
- 3 tbsp melted butter – binds the crumbs together
- 2 tbsp sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to the crust
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – creates the smooth, creamy texture
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – sweetens the filling
- 2 tbsp lemon zest – adds bright citrus flavor
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – brings tartness and balances the sweetness
- 1 cup whipped cream – lightens and fluffs up the filling
For the Topping:
- Fresh raspberries – sweet-tart topping to complement the cheesecake
- Whipped cream (optional) – for an extra creamy topping
- Lemon slices or mint leaves (optional, for garnish) – to add a finishing touch
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of your cups or jars using a spoon, forming a compact, even crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream, creating a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Layer the graham cracker crust with the cheesecake filling, spreading it evenly.
- Top with fresh raspberries and optionally add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cups for at least 2-3 hours to allow the filling to set.
- Garnish with lemon slices or mint leaves before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Variations/Substitutions: You can swap raspberries for blueberries, strawberries, or even blackberries. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers. Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to whipped cream for a vegan version.
- Adjust the lemon zest and juice to your preference if you prefer a stronger or milder citrus flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheesecake cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg