Easy No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Cups

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly damp.
2. Divide the graham cracker mixture evenly among 6 serving cups or jars to form the crust layer. Press down gently to compact the crumbs. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using a handheld mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
4. In another chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and fluffy.
5. Prepare the mixed berries by rinsing and gently drying them. Quarter large strawberries. Toss berries with lemon juice to brighten flavors.
6. Spoon or pipe about two-thirds of the cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crusts in each cup.
7. Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the filling, then finish with the remaining cheesecake filling creating a layered effect.
8. Chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the cheesecake layer to set and flavors to meld.
9. Before serving, optionally garnish each cup with a few whole berries and a fresh mint leaf for a pretty presentation.

Chef tips

• For a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks instead of heavy cream.
• If fresh berries are out of season, substitute with frozen mixed berries, thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
• You can swap graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for slightly different flavor.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.