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 first served these cheesecake cups at a family gathering and they disappeared quickly with many compliments on the unique matcha swirl.
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.
- Form crust base:
- 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 gelatin:
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 2 tbsp water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix cheesecake batter:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Whip cream:
- Whip 120 ml heavy cream to soft peaks and 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:
- Whisk matcha powder with 2 tbsp hot water until smooth.
- Divide batter:
- Divide the cheesecake filling in half. Fold the dissolved matcha mixture into one half until evenly colored.
- Assemble cheesecake 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.
- Prepare snowdrift topping (optional):
- Whip the cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks and pipe or spoon onto set cheesecake cups.
- Garnish & serve:
- Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder if desired. Serve chilled.
Save My family loves gathering to enjoy these cups especially during spring when the fresh matcha flavor brightens the mood.
Tips for Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free cookies for the crust to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep freshness and texture intact.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with white chocolate curls or fresh berries for added flair and visual appeal.
Save These cheesecake cups offer an elegant and effortless dessert that impresses without the need for an oven.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve the matcha swirl effect?
Whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth, then gently fold into half of the filling. Layer the plain and matcha fillings alternately and use a toothpick to create a marbled pattern.
- → What substitutes can I use for gelatin?
Agar-agar powder can be used as a vegetarian alternative. Bloom and dissolve it according to package instructions for a similar setting effect.
- → Can these cups be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cookies or crackers for the base to accommodate gluten sensitivities without altering texture greatly.
- → How is the crust prepared for best texture?
Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and sugar until the mixture feels like wet sand, then press firmly into molds before chilling to create a crisp, stable base.
- → What is the purpose of chilling for 3 hours?
Chilling allows the filling to set properly, ensuring a firm yet creamy texture that's easy to slice or scoop and maintains the marbled design.
- → Is the snowdrift topping necessary?
The snowdrift is optional but adds a light whipped cream texture and sweetness that complements the dense filling and enhances the presentation.