Pin this 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 always loved serving these creamy matcha swirl cheesecake cups to friends as an impressive yet easy dessert option.
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.
- Mix cream cheese and sugar:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing well.
- Whip heavy cream:
- 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 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.
- Combine mixtures:
- Divide the cheesecake filling in half. Fold the dissolved matcha mixture into one half until evenly colored.
- Create swirls:
- 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.
- Add snowdrift 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.
Pin this This recipe always brings smiles when shared at family gatherings and special occasions.
Notes
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Garnish ideas include white chocolate curls or fresh berries for added flair.
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.
Pin this These no-bake cups combine simplicity with elegance for a perfect dessert every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the perfect matcha swirl?
Whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth, then fold gently into half the filling. Alternate dollops of plain and matcha batters over the base, using a toothpick to swirl for a marbled effect.
- → Can I prepare these cups in advance?
Yes, chilling for at least 3 hours allows the filling to set firmly. Store covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days.
- → What crust options work best with this dessert?
Delicate, finely crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits combine with melted butter and sugar to form a crisp yet tender base that complements the creamy filling.
- → Is the snowdrift topping necessary?
The whipped cream topping lightens the dessert with soft sweetness but can be omitted for a simpler presentation.
- → How can I adjust the matcha flavor intensity?
Modify the amount of matcha powder used in the swirl mixture to suit your taste, enhancing or softening the green tea notes.