Save Luscious, creamy cheesecake cups with a vibrant matcha swirl, set atop a crisp cookie base and finished without baking&perfect for an elegant dessert or afternoon treat.
I first made these cheesecake cups for a family gathering&they were a huge hit especially with those who love elegant desserts without fuss.
Ingredients
- Crust: 120 g (1 cup) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits, finely crushed, 50 g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted, 2 tsp granulated sugar, pinch of salt
- Cheesecake Filling: 250 g (1 cup) cream cheese, softened, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, cold, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tsp powdered gelatin, 2 tbsp water (for blooming gelatin)
- Matcha Swirl: 2 tsp high-quality matcha green tea powder, 2 tbsp hot water (not boiling)
- Snowdrift Topping (Optional): 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks, 1 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crust:
- Divide the mixture evenly among 8 cupcake liners or small jars. Press firmly to create a compact base. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- Bloom gelatin:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 2 tbsp water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix cream cheese and sugar:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Whip cream:
- Whip 120 ml heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Dissolve gelatin:
- Gently heat the bloomed gelatin in the microwave or over hot water until fully dissolved (do not boil). Let cool slightly, then mix into the cheesecake batter quickly and thoroughly.
- Prepare matcha swirl:
- Whisk matcha powder with 2 tbsp hot water until smooth.
- Fold matcha:
- Divide the cheesecake filling in half. Fold the dissolved matcha mixture into one half until evenly colored.
- Layer cheesecake:
- Spoon alternating dollops of plain and matcha cheesecake mixtures over the prepared crusts. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.
- Chill:
- Chill at least 3 hours, or until set.
- Make topping (optional):
- Whip the cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks and pipe or spoon onto set cheesecake cups.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder, if desired. Serve chilled.
Save This recipe always brings smiles when shared with family at gatherings and creates lasting memories of sweet moments.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, cupcake pan or serving jars, toothpick or skewer
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter, cream) and gluten (in standard graham crackers) May contain traces of nuts depending on cookie brand Always check product labels if allergies are a concern
Nutritional Information
Calories: 275 Total Fat: 19 g Carbohydrates: 22 g Protein: 4 g per serving
Save This no-bake cheesecake cup recipe is sure to impress your guests with its fresh flavor and stunning presentation.
Kitchen Guide
- → How is the swirl effect achieved?
The swirl is created by folding a smooth mixture of matcha powder and hot water into half of the filling, then alternating spoonfuls of matcha and plain filling are lightly swirled together with a skewer.
- → Can I make the crust gluten-free?
Yes, substituting gluten-free cookies for the base will keep the crust crisp and suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → Why is the filling not baked?
This no-bake approach preserves the creamy texture while chilling allows the gelatin to set the filling firmly without heat.
- → What is the purpose of gelatin in the filling?
Gelatin helps the filling set smoothly and hold its shape once chilled, giving structure without baking.
- → How can I adjust the matcha flavor intensity?
Modify the amount of matcha powder used in the swirl to enhance or soften the green tea aroma and taste.
- → Is the snowdrift topping necessary?
The whipped cream topping adds a light, airy finish but can be skipped or replaced depending on preference.