Imagine your favorite strawberry cheesecake, but in perfectly portioned, individual cups – that’s exactly what these easy no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups offer! They require absolutely no baking, meaning you can whip up a batch of these delightful dessert cups incredibly quickly, without ever needing to turn on your oven. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, and we’ve included simple dairy-free options so everyone can enjoy this luscious treat. Get ready to discover your new go-to dessert for any occasion!

Cheesecake Lovers, This One’s For You!

If the rich, creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor of cheesecake rank among your favorite desserts, but the traditional baking process often feels too complicated or time-consuming, you’re in for a real treat! These no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups are a game-changer. They offer all the luxurious taste and texture of a classic cheesecake in a remarkably easier and equally delicious alternative. Forget the water baths, the cracking, and the lengthy baking times – these cups deliver pure cheesecake bliss with minimal fuss.

Each individual cup is a symphony of textures and flavors. It starts with a satisfyingly crunchy graham cracker base, meticulously crafted to be 100% gluten-free. This foundation perfectly complements the star of the show: a thick, rich, and incredibly smooth cream cheese layer. And to crown this masterpiece? A vibrant, sweet homemade strawberry sauce, bursting with the fresh taste of summer berries. Every spoonful is pure heaven!

Beyond their irresistible taste, these strawberry cheesecake dessert cups are also incredibly beautiful. Their layered presentation in clear cups makes them visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests. They’re ideal for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or any celebratory gathering where you want to serve a stunning yet simple dessert. And with strawberry season in full swing, there’s no better way to utilize those fresh, ripe seasonal strawberries than by transforming them into this delectable treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: You’ll appreciate how straightforward and accessible the ingredient list is for these mini strawberry cheesecake cups. There’s no need to hunt for obscure or specialty items; all the main components can be easily found at your local grocery store. This makes preparing this decadent dessert a stress-free experience, perfect for last-minute cravings or spontaneous entertaining.
• Easy to Make: The simplicity of this recipe is truly one of its greatest appeals. Preparing these individual cheesecake cups is genuinely a piece of cake – and the best part is that absolutely no baking is required! This eliminates the potential for common baking mishaps like cracks or over-baked crusts, making it a fantastic recipe for beginner cooks and seasoned dessert makers alike. Just assemble, chill, and enjoy!
• Gluten-Free with Dairy-Free Options: Dietary restrictions shouldn’t mean missing out on delicious desserts. This recipe is thoughtfully designed to be 100% gluten-free, ensuring that those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivities can indulge without worry. Furthermore, it can easily be adapted to be dairy-free too, by simply swapping out a couple of key ingredients. This versatility means that practically everyone, including those with lactose intolerances, can savor this delightful dessert recipe without any issues, making it a truly inclusive treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Creating these delightful no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the list is simple, each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the crisp graham cracker base to the luscious cream cheese filling and the vibrant strawberry topping, every ingredient contributes to the ultimate dessert experience. Below is a visual overview to help you gather everything you’ll need.

(For the precise measurements and a detailed list, please scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card at the very bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes + Substitutions:

To ensure your no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups turn out perfectly, and to accommodate various dietary needs, here are some detailed notes and substitution ideas for the key ingredients:

• Graham Crackers: The foundation of this cheesecake is its crunchy base. To keep this recipe entirely gluten-free, I recommend using gluten-free graham crackers. You have the flexibility to either whip up a batch of homemade gluten-free graham crackers for a truly custom touch, or opt for the convenience of store-bought crackers, which are readily available in most grocery stores. If you don’t have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, feel free to use regular graham crackers instead – the method remains the same.
• Cream Cheese: For the iconic tangy and rich flavor of cheesecake, it’s essential to use plain, full-fat cream cheese. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending and to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling. For those who are lactose-intolerant or prefer a plant-based option, there are excellent dairy-free cream cheese alternatives on the market that will yield a similarly delicious result.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient is crucial for creating that light, airy, yet stable cheesecake filling. Make sure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping, as this helps it thicken quickly and achieve stiff peaks. If you’re adapting the recipe to be lactose-intolerant, opt for a good quality dairy-free heavy cream alternative, which can be whipped just like conventional cream.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, powdered sugar is finely milled granulated sugar. Its fine texture is important for creating a smooth, velvety cream cheese filling without any graininess. If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, you can easily make your own by blending regular granulated white sugar in a high-speed blender or food processor until it reaches a super fine, powdery consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract is a simple yet powerful addition that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake filling, adding a warm, aromatic depth that complements the strawberries beautifully. I highly recommend including it for the best taste.
• Strawberries: The star of the topping! For the most vibrant flavor and color, always use fresh, ripe strawberries. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness are unbeatable. However, if strawberries aren’t in season or you wish to experiment, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You could easily substitute them with other fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different, but equally delicious, berry cheesecake cup.

How to Make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups (Step by Step):

Get ready to assemble these irresistible no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups with this easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can create such a show-stopping dessert!

Cook Strawberry Sauce: Begin by preparing your luscious strawberry topping. Place the finely diced fresh strawberries and 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and gently mash the strawberries with a wooden spoon or spatula as they cook. Continue this process until the mixture breaks down and a thick, syrupy sauce forms. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial to prevent it from melting the cream cheese layer later.

Whip Heavy Cream and Powdered Sugar: Next, prepare the base of your creamy filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk and a lot of elbow grease!), beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken slightly and holds soft peaks. This usually takes about 1 minute, but keep a close eye on it to avoid over-whipping.

Dish by Dish Tips:

To help you perfect these no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups and get creative in the kitchen, here are some expert tips:

• Prefer Fresh Strawberry Topping? If you’re short on time or simply prefer the vibrant texture of fresh strawberries over a cooked sauce, you can easily adapt the topping. Simply toss fresh, finely diced strawberries with a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference). Let this strawberry-sugar mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes. The sugar will draw out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a light, syrupy consistency without any cooking required. This macerated fruit topping offers a brighter, fresher flavor profile.
• Use Other Berries: Don’t limit yourself to just strawberries! This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted with almost any berry. Feel free to swap out the strawberries for raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries, or even a delightful mix of all three. Each berry will bring its unique flavor and color to the cheesecake cups, allowing for endless variations throughout the year.
• Make Oreo Cheesecake Cups: For a completely different but equally delicious twist, consider swapping out the crushed gluten-free graham crackers for crushed gluten-free Oreo cookies (or golden Oreos). The chocolatey or vanilla cookie base adds another layer of flavor and a distinct texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake filling and even the strawberry topping. This is a fantastic option for cookie lovers!
• Use Glass Jars: Presentation truly elevates any dessert. I highly recommend assembling these no-bake cheesecake cups in small, clear glass jars. Not only do they look incredibly charming and elegant, allowing you to admire the beautiful layers of graham cracker, cream cheese, and bright red strawberry, but they also make for perfect individual portions. They’re also fantastic for transporting to picnics or gifting to friends and family.

Other Gluten-Free Strawberry Recipes You’ll Love:

If you’ve fallen in love with the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries in this recipe, you’re in luck! Strawberries are incredibly versatile and shine in a wide array of gluten-free desserts. Explore more ways to enjoy this delightful fruit with these other fantastic recipes from our collection:

• Moist Strawberry Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Strawberry Pie (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Strawberry Crumble Bars (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Fresh Strawberry Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Homemade Strawberry Jam (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Strawberry Shortcake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Gluten-Free Desserts to Indulge In:

Our commitment to delicious, inclusive baking doesn’t stop at strawberries. If you’re looking for more incredible gluten-free treats that are perfect for any craving or celebration, dive into this selection of indulgent desserts. Each recipe is crafted to bring joy to your taste buds without compromising on dietary needs:

P.S. We genuinely love hearing from you! If you decide to give this delicious recipe a try, please do us a favor and leave a star rating below, along with a review in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us and helps other home cooks discover wonderful new recipes. Don’t forget to explore my entire Recipe Index for all the culinary delights on the blog. You can also connect with me and find more inspiration by following me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram! And for a weekly dose of fresh, delightful recipes delivered straight to your inbox, be sure to sign up for my Email List!

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Strawberry Cheesecake Cups (Gluten-Free, No-Bake)

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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  Yield: 4 servings
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  Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These easy no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups are a delightful dessert that brings all the classic flavors of your favorite strawberry cheesecake into perfectly portioned, individual servings. There’s absolutely no baking involved, making them incredibly quick and straightforward to prepare. They are also crafted to be naturally gluten-free, with readily available dairy-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this wonderfully creamy and fruity treat without any fuss. Perfect for quick cravings or elegant entertaining!

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Ingredients

Units

Scale

For the Graham Cracker Base:

• 1 1/2 cup crushed gluten-free graham crackers (Approximately 8 to 10 graham crackers)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup cream cheese (full-fat, room temperature)
• 1/2 cup cold heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Cook Strawberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the diced strawberries and 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently and gently mashing with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the strawberries break down and a thick, syrupy sauce forms. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before using.
2. Whip Heavy Cream & Powdered Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the very cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip until the mixture thickens slightly and soft peaks begin to form, usually about 1 minute with an electric mixer.
3. Add Cream Cheese & Beat: Add the softened cream cheese to the whipped cream mixture. Continue beating until all ingredients are well combined, and you achieve a thick, homogeneous, and smooth cheesecake filling that holds stiff peaks.
4. Prepare Graham Cracker Base: Take your gluten-free graham crackers and process them in a food processor until you get fine, sand-like crumbs. Distribute 2 tablespoons of these crushed graham cracker crumbs evenly into the bottom of each of your 4 serving cups or jars, pressing lightly to form a compact base.
5. Add Cream Cheese Layer: Carefully spoon or pipe approximately ¼ cup of the creamy cheesecake filling on top of the graham cracker base in each cup. Gently spread to create an even layer.
6. Top with Strawberry Sauce: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cooled strawberry sauce over the cream cheese layer in each cup. For extra flair and richness, you can repeat the layering process with another thin layer of crumbs, cream cheese, and sauce. Finish with additional sauce and fresh strawberry slices for garnish.
7. Chill Before Serving: Place the assembled cheesecake cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This crucial chilling time allows the dessert to set properly and ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Graham Crackers: To keep this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. You can use homemade or store-bought options. If gluten isn’t an issue, regular graham crackers work perfectly well.

Cream Cheese: Ensure you use plain, full-fat cream cheese, and make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth consistency. For a dairy-free version, dairy-free cream cheese alternatives are an excellent substitute.

Heavy Cream: Always use cold heavy cream for optimal whipping results. If you need a dairy-free option, there are fantastic dairy-free heavy cream alternatives available that whip up beautifully.

Powdered Sugar: This fine sugar is crucial for a silky-smooth filling. Powdered sugar can also be made at home by processing granulated sugar in a blender until fine.

Vanilla Extract: Adding a touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, giving the cheesecake a warm, inviting aroma and taste.

Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are highly recommended for the best flavor and color in your sauce and garnish. Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries if you prefer.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Category: Desserts
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American