These No Bake Mini Lemon Raspberry Cheesecakes are a delightful, refreshing treat that combines tangy lemon curd, creamy cheesecake filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a quick dessert, these cheesecakes come together easily without needing an oven. With minimal prep and a short chill time, you can enjoy these individual-sized cheesecakes in just over two hours. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a personal treat, they are sure to impress. The bright, zesty lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of fresh raspberries, making each bite a burst of flavor. These cheesecakes not only taste amazing but are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings as you wish. Plus, their no-bake nature makes them ideal for those who want a simple dessert that doesn’t require heating up the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. No-Bake Convenience
This recipe requires no baking, saving you time and effort. Perfect for busy days or when you want a cool treat without turning on the oven.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a summer gathering, holiday party, or a simple weeknight dessert, these mini cheesecakes are elegant and easy to prepare.
3. Light and Refreshing Flavor
The combination of tangy lemon curd and fresh raspberries creates a bright and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy fruity treats.
4. Customizable Toppings
While lemon curd and raspberries are the stars, feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or even chocolate shavings to make them your own.
5. Individual Portions
These mini cheesecakes are already portioned out, making them ideal for serving guests or indulging without any guilt. Perfect for parties or potlucks!
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Sugar
- Butter, melted
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Lemon curd
- Fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
Variations
- Fruit Options: Swap raspberries for other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries, depending on what’s in season or your personal preference.
- Flavored Crust: Experiment with different types of crusts, such as using chocolate cookie crumbs or crushed nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Cheesecake Filling: Add a hint of flavor to the cheesecake filling by incorporating a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of raspberry puree.
- Toppings: Get creative with additional toppings like chopped mint, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of fruit syrup for extra sweetness.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
Step 2: Form the Crust
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of mini cheesecake pans or muffin tins, ensuring an even layer. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecakes
Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top of the prepared crusts, smoothing the tops with a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Once chilled, top each cheesecake with a spoonful of lemon curd and a few fresh raspberries. Garnish with whipped cream before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and a creamy texture.
- Firm Crust: Press the graham cracker crust down firmly to prevent it from crumbling when you remove the cheesecakes from the pan.
- Chill Thoroughly: Be sure to refrigerate the cheesecakes for the full 2 hours to allow them to set properly and hold their shape when served.
- Use Fresh Fruit: For the best flavor, use fresh raspberries or your favorite fruit topping, as it will complement the creamy filling beautifully.
How to Serve
Serve these mini lemon raspberry cheesecakes chilled. They are perfect for parties, barbecues, or as a light dessert after dinner. Place them on a platter and garnish with additional berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a more elegant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
These mini cheesecakes can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, wrap each mini cheesecake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake dessert, you don’t need to reheat it. Simply enjoy the mini cheesecakes chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! You can use a chocolate cookie crust, graham crackers with a little cinnamon, or even a nut-based crust for a different flavor.
2. Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mini cheesecakes can be made a day ahead, making them a great option for meal prep or parties.
3. Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Yes, store-bought lemon curd works perfectly if you’re short on time, but homemade lemon curd can give the cheesecakes an extra touch of freshness.
4. How can I make these cheesecakes vegan?
To make the cheesecakes vegan, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and replace the butter with a plant-based option.
5. Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before using them as toppings.
6. Can I add more fruit to the filling?
Feel free to add a layer of fruit, like raspberries or blueberries, to the cheesecake filling itself for added flavor.
7. How do I remove the mini cheesecakes from the pan?
To remove them easily, line your muffin tins or pans with parchment paper before adding the crust and filling. This way, you can lift the cheesecakes out once they’ve set.
8. Can I use a different sweetener instead of powdered sugar?
Yes, you can substitute powdered sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a powdered sugar alternative, but the texture may vary slightly.
9. Can I use a different fruit for the topping?
You can definitely substitute fresh raspberries with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different flavor.
10. Can I make these mini cheesecakes in a regular cheesecake pan?
Yes, you can make these in a regular cheesecake pan, but you may need to adjust the chilling time.
Conclusion
These No Bake Mini Lemon Raspberry Cheesecakes are an easy, delicious, and refreshing dessert that everyone will love. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling, and the bright flavors of lemon and raspberries, this treat is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a simple treat at home, these mini cheesecakes are sure to impress. Make them ahead of time, customize the toppings, and enjoy!
PrintNo Bake Mini Lemon Raspberry Cheesecakes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These adorable no-bake mini cheesecakes are the perfect sweet treat, featuring a tangy lemon curd topping and fresh raspberries. With a buttery graham cracker crust and creamy filling, they’re ideal for a light dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press mixture into the bottom of mini cheesecake pans or muffin tins.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Spoon cream cheese mixture on top of crusts, smoothing the tops.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Top each mini cheesecake with a spoonful of lemon curd and fresh raspberries.
- Garnish with whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- For a different fruit topping, try swapping raspberries for strawberries or blueberries.
- You can make these in advance and refrigerate them overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes