Save Luscious creamy cheesecake cups with a vibrant matcha swirl set atop a crisp cookie base and finished without baking&mdashperfect for an elegant dessert or afternoon treat.
I enjoy making these for special occasions as they impress guests with their beautiful swirl and delicate taste.
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 the mixture:
- 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.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar:
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Whip heavy 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 and fold:
- 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.
- Optional topping:
- 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 Making these cheesecake cups always brings my family together for sweet moments and smiles.
Notes
Garnish with white chocolate curls or fresh berries for added flair. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, cupcake pan or serving jars, toothpick or skewer
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter, cream) and gluten (in standard graham crackers). May contain traces of nuts depending on cookie brand. Always check product labels if allergies are a concern.
Save This no-bake matcha cheesecake cup is a delightful treat that combines creamy texture with unique flavors for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve a smooth matcha swirl without clumps?
Whisk matcha powder thoroughly with hot water until fully dissolved before folding into half the filling to ensure an even, smooth swirl.
- → Can I use an alternative base instead of graham crackers?
Yes, digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies can be substituted for the base to suit dietary preferences without compromising texture.
- → What’s the best method to bloom gelatin for this dessert?
Sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then gently heat without boiling until fully dissolved before mixing into the filling.
- → How long should the cups be chilled before serving?
Chill for at least 3 hours to allow proper setting and flavor development, resulting in a firm yet creamy texture.
- → Is it necessary to add the snowdrift topping?
The whipped cream topping is optional but adds a light, airy contrast that complements the rich filling beautifully.