Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

The Best Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe: Dreamy & Sweet

Sweet raspberry cheesecake cupcakes combine creamy indulgence with bright fruity notes that dance across your palate.

Delicate and elegant, these miniature desserts pack incredible flavor into every single bite.

Soft cream cheese blends perfectly with tangy raspberries, creating a sophisticated treat perfect for special moments.

Compact and adorable, these cupcakes promise to impress guests with their stunning presentation and rich taste.

Subtle hints of vanilla complement the vibrant raspberry swirls, making each mini cheesecake a delightful experience.

Baking these delectable treats feels like crafting edible art that celebrates summer’s most beautiful fruit.

Anyone who loves decadent desserts will absolutely fall in love with these irresistible little wonders.

Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes to Savor

  • Swirl in Gorgeous Color: The raspberry sauce creates a stunning marbled effect that transforms plain cheesecake into an eye-catching dessert with vibrant pink swirls that look professionally crafted.
  • Perfectly Portioned Pleasure: Individual cupcake-sized cheesecakes make serving super easy, allowing guests to grab their own treat without messy cutting or complicated plating.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Fusion: The combination of tangy cream cheese, sweet graham cracker crust, and bright raspberry creates a delightful flavor profile that appeals to both fruit and dessert lovers.
  • Quick Weekend Baking Project: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, these raspberry cheesecake cupcakes are an approachable recipe for bakers of all skill levels, making them ideal for weekend cooking adventures.

Ingredients for Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake cupcakes.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the graham cracker crust.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and creates a rich flavor.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy and tangy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes to the smooth and creamy texture of the filling.
Raspberry Swirl Ingredients:
  • Raspberries, Sugar, Lemon Juice: Create a bright and tangy raspberry sauce with natural sweetness.
  • Cornstarch: Optional ingredient that helps thicken the raspberry sauce for a more consistent texture.

How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat your oven to 325F (163C).

Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners, creating a perfect canvas for your delectable treats.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.

Press this golden mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner.

Bake the crust for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whip softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until silky smooth.

Gradually add eggs, incorporating one at a time.

Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream, creating a luxurious, velvety mixture that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 4: Fill Cupcake Liners

Distribute the cheesecake filling evenly across the prepared crusts, ensuring each cupcake gets an equal share of creamy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare Vibrant Raspberry Swirl

Transform fresh raspberries into a luscious sauce by blending with:
  • Raspberries
  • Sugar
  • Lemon juice

Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove seeds.

Optional: Mix in cornstarch for a thicker consistency.

Step 6: Create Beautiful Raspberry Swirl

Gently spoon small dollops of raspberry sauce atop each cheesecake.

Use a toothpick to create elegant swirls, marbling the vibrant red sauce into the creamy white filling.

Step 7: Bake and Chill

Bake the cupcakes for 18-22 minutes until they’re perfectly set.

Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve the ultimate cheesecake texture and flavor.

Tips for Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Choose ripe, vibrant raspberries for the most intense flavor and beautiful swirl effect in your cheesecake cupcakes.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and bake in a water bath to create a smooth, crack-free surface that looks professionally made.
  • Bring cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends perfectly.
  • Always strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, creating a smooth and elegant sauce for your cupcakes.

Variations for Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Gluten-Free Berry Bliss: Swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious texture and taste.
  • Vegan Raspberry Dream: Replace cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and swap eggs with flax eggs to create a plant-based alternative that's equally creamy and rich.
  • Low-Sugar Raspberry Charm: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while keeping the tangy raspberry flavor intact for those watching their sugar intake.
  • Chocolate Raspberry Fusion: Add cocoa powder to the cheesecake base and use chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust, creating a decadent chocolate-raspberry combination that elevates the original recipe.

Serving Ideas for Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Berry Bliss Plating: Arrange cupcakes on a elegant white cake stand, dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh whole raspberries for a stunning presentation.
  • Dessert Companion Delight: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy cheesecake texture and complement the tangy raspberry swirl.
  • Brunch Elegance Pairing: Complement these cupcakes with a light champagne, sparkling rosé, or a smooth cold brew coffee to elevate the dessert experience and balance the sweet flavors.
  • Gifting Gourmet Touch: Package individual cupcakes in clear gift boxes with a ribbon, perfect for special occasions like birthdays, bridal showers, or as a thoughtful homemade treat for friends and family.

Storage Advice for Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate texture.
  • Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Keep frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Let refrigerated cupcakes sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly and enhance flavor before enjoying.
  • Gently warm cupcakes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power to prevent overcooking the delicate cheesecake texture. Alternatively, let them come to room temperature naturally for the best taste and consistency.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen raspberries work perfectly. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using in the raspberry swirl.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake cupcakes from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, don’t overbake, and let the cupcakes cool gradually. Baking in a water bath can also help prevent cracks.

  • Is it necessary to strain the raspberry sauce?

Straining removes seeds and creates a smoother sauce, but it’s optional. If you don’t mind seeds, you can skip this step.

  • What type of cream cheese works best for this recipe?

Use full-fat, room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest and richest texture. Philadelphia cream cheese is a popular and reliable brand.

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Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

Luscious Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Raspberry cheesecake cupcakes blend creamy cheesecake with tangy fruit in a delightful dessert. Sweet and rich flavors create a perfect balance that delights palates and leaves you craving another bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Topping and Flavoring:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • Additional fresh raspberries for garnish
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 325F (163C) and arrange cupcake liners in a 12-cup muffin tin.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter into a cohesive mixture. Gently press the crumb base into each liner’s bottom, then bake for 5 minutes to set the foundation.
  3. Whip cream cheese and granulated sugar until achieving a silky, uniform texture. Incorporate eggs individually, then blend in vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture becomes perfectly smooth and homogeneous.
  4. Distribute the cheesecake filling evenly across the prepared crusts, ensuring consistent coverage.
  5. Create the raspberry swirl by pulverizing raspberries with sugar and lemon juice. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to eliminate seeds, optionally thickening with cornstarch for enhanced consistency.
  6. Delicately drop small raspberry sauce portions onto each cheesecake surface. Use a toothpick to artfully integrate the sauce, creating elegant swirling patterns throughout the filling.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the cheesecakes reach a stable, slightly firm texture. Allow complete cooling, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to enhance flavor and structural integrity before serving.

Notes

  • Crust Perfection: Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to press graham cracker mixture evenly and firmly into cupcake liners for a compact, stable base.
  • Temperature Trick: Bring cream cheese to room temperature beforehand to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and prevent cracking during baking.
  • Swirl Technique: Add raspberry sauce sparingly and swirl gently with a toothpick to create beautiful marble-like patterns without overmixing.
  • Dietary Modifications: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives or use almond flour for a low-carb version; replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly option.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 89 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 28 mg
  • Fat: 6.3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.5 g
  • Fiber: 0.4 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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