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 have enjoyed making these cheesecake cups for gatherings where their vibrant green swirl never fails to impress my guests.
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 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 cheesecake 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:
- 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.
- Prepare 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 dessert always brings smiles during family celebrations and is quickly devoured by all ages.
Storage Tips
Store cheesecake cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Variations
Experiment with different cookie bases like gluten-free options or add fresh berries for a fruity twist.
Nutritional Info
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories, 19 g fat, 22 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Save These cheesecake cups are a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve a smooth matcha swirl?
Whisk matcha powder with hot water until fully dissolved and smooth before folding gently into half the creamy base. Use a toothpick to create a delicate marbled effect.
- → Can I substitute the crust for dietary needs?
Yes, gluten-free cookies can replace graham crackers to make the crust suitable for gluten-free diets while maintaining a crisp texture.
- → What is the best way to bloom gelatin?
Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about five minutes before gently heating. Avoid boiling to preserve setting properties.
- → How long should the cups chill before serving?
Allow at least 3 hours in the refrigerator to ensure a firm, well-set texture for smooth slicing and serving.
- → Is the whipped topping necessary?
The snowdrift topping is optional; it adds a light and fluffy contrast that complements the creamy base's richness and the matcha's earthiness.
- → Can I customize the matcha flavor intensity?
Adjust the amount of matcha powder used in the swirl to suit your taste, balancing earthiness and sweetness as preferred.