Save to Pinterest 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.
This recipe has quickly become a favorite at gatherings thanks to its refreshing taste and impressive presentation.
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.
- Form 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 the gelatin:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 2 tbsp water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix filling:
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Whip cream:
- In another bowl, 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:
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with 2 tbsp hot water until smooth.
- Divide filling:
- Divide the cheesecake filling in half. Fold the dissolved matcha mixture into one half until evenly colored.
- Assemble cups:
- 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.
- Add 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 to Pinterest My family loves gathering together to enjoy these cheesecake cups, especially during special occasions and holidays.
Tips for Serving
Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. Add fresh berries or white chocolate curls for decoration.
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Gluten-Free Variations
Substitute the cookie base with gluten-free cookies to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Save to Pinterest These cheesecake cups make an impressive dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Questions & Answers
- → How is the crust prepared?
The crust is made by combining finely crushed graham crackers with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then pressed firmly into liners or jars to form a compact base.
- → What creates the matcha swirl effect?
The matcha is whisked with hot water to form a smooth mixture, which is folded into half of the cheesecake filling. Alternating dollops of plain and matcha filling are then swirled together for a marbled appearance.
- → Is baking required for these cheesecake cups?
No baking is needed. The filling is set by chilling for at least three hours, allowing the gelatin to firm the mixture while keeping it creamy and smooth.
- → Can the snowdrift topping be omitted?
Yes, the whipped cream topping is optional but adds a light, airy texture and a touch of sweetness if included.
- → How can the crust be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies or biscuits in place of standard graham crackers to accommodate gluten-free diets without compromising texture.