Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls

Name: Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 tbsp sugar

Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection

I love making these Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls because they are a delightful treat that combines my favorite flavors in a fun, bite-sized format. The creamy cheesecake filling paired with the sweetness of fresh strawberries creates a perfect blend of textures and tastes. Whether it's a special occasion or just a Sunday afternoon dessert, these bowls always bring a smile to my face. Plus, they are quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for both casual and festive gatherings.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:10:28.374Z

Creating these Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls has been a delightful experience for me, especially when experimenting with flavors. I found that incorporating sour cream into the filling adds a unique tang that beautifully balances the sweetness. This recipe is about unlocking those flavors, and I can assure you, the fresh strawberries on top make all the difference.

As I made these bowls, I loved how simple it was to achieve a beautiful presentation. Layering the components in small jars not only looks stunning but also keeps the cheesecake fresh. This has become a go-to dessert in my household, especially for gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cheesecake flavor with a fresh strawberry topping
Individual servings that are perfect for sharing
Quick prep time makes it a great last-minute dessert

      

Why Fresh Strawberries Shine

The fresh strawberries in this recipe are what elevate these Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls to the next level. Their natural sweetness complements the rich, creamy cheesecake filling beautifully. When choosing strawberries, look for firm, deep red berries that are fragrant and free from blemishes. These qualities ensure that your topping will not only taste great but also look visually appealing, enhancing your dessert's presentation.

Additionally, the lemon juice in the strawberry topping serves a dual purpose: it brightens the flavor of the strawberries while balancing their sweetness. This acidity cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, creating a well-rounded dessert that’s gratifying without being overly heavy.

Perfecting the Cheesecake Texture

Achieving a smooth and creamy texture for the cheesecake filling is essential for the overall enjoyment of these bowls. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened; this allows it to blend seamlessly with the sugar, leading to a lump-free mixture. Ideally, leave the cream cheese at room temperature for 1-2 hours before mixing, or you can microwave it on low for 10-15 seconds if you're short on time.

Another tip is to fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture. Over-mixing can deflate the whipped cream and lead to a denser filling rather than the light texture you want. The finished filling should be glossy and hold its shape when you spoon it over the crust.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls can be prepared a few hours in advance, making them a fantastic make-ahead dessert option. After you've assembled the cheesecake layers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. They can be kept in the fridge for up to two days; just add the strawberry topping right before serving to keep the berries fresh and vibrant.

If you're looking to personalize your servings, consider experimenting with different toppings. Other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, can work wonderfully, while a drizzle of chocolate or a sprig of mint can add a delightful twist to the presentation. Feel free to customize the crust too; using crushed cookies or oats instead of graham crackers can introduce exciting new flavors!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls:

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of small jars or bowls. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until blended. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Assemble the Bowls

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in the jars. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Finish the Bowls

Top each cheesecake jar with the strawberry mixture before serving. Enjoy!

Refrigerate any leftovers for later enjoyment.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a bit of lemon zest into the cheesecake filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter version of these Mini Strawberry Cheesecake Bowls, consider substituting the cream cheese with a low-fat alternative or even a mascarpone cheese for a rich but slightly different flavor profile. Similarly, for the sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute, adding a tangy taste while maintaining creaminess.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour mixed with melted coconut oil can easily substitute traditional graham cracker crust. For a dairy-free option, plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream can work well to create a satisfying cheesecake filling.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for a larger gathering is straightforward. For larger batches, simply multiply the amounts of each ingredient according to the number of servings you need. If you're using larger jars, you may want to increase the crust and filling proportions slightly to ensure that each bowl is balanced in flavor and texture.

When preparing larger quantities, I recommend mixing the cheesecake filling in batches if your mixing bowl isn't large enough, as this will help maintain the creamy texture. Additionally, if you're assembling the bowls ahead of time, ensure they are spaced adequately in the fridge to allow for proper chilling and firming.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake filling turns out lumpy, it might be due to not softening the cream cheese adequately. Ensure that it is brought to room temperature before mixing. If you find yourself in a bind and forget to soften it, try a vigorous whisking after you've blended in the sugar to create a smoother texture.

Another common issue is the strawberry topping becoming too watery. To combat this, try tossing the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice and allowing them to sit for a shorter period. This reduces the time they have to release their juices while still providing a fresh flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ How long can these be stored in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.

→ Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream.