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Easy Creamy No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Cups

no-bake lemon cheesecake cups - featured image

A simple, no-bake lemon cheesecake cup recipe that is creamy, tangy, and perfect for spring desserts. Ready in under 20 minutes with no oven required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) crushed graham crackers
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional toppings: fresh berries, lemon slices, extra lemon zest

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted unsalted butter. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand.
  2. Divide the crust mixture evenly among 6 serving cups or jars. Press firmly into the bottom to create a compact layer. Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
  6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, keeping the mixture airy and smooth.
  7. Spoon or pipe the lemon cheesecake filling over the chilled crust layers in serving cups. Smooth the tops.
  8. Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 2 hours, preferably longer or overnight, to allow them to set.
  9. Before serving, garnish each cup with extra lemon zest, fresh berries, or thin lemon slices.

Notes

Softening cream cheese naturally at room temperature helps avoid lumps. Whip cream to soft peaks only to prevent grainy texture. Press crust firmly to avoid it falling apart. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight for best texture. Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version. Dairy-free alternatives include vegan cream cheese and whipped coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, lemon cheesecake, spring dessert, creamy, easy dessert, lemon, cheesecake cups