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.
This cheesecake quickly became my favorite easy treat to bring to dinner parties because everyone loves the unique matcha flavor.
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:
- 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.
- 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. 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.
- Make matcha swirl:
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with 2 tbsp hot water until smooth.
- Fold matcha into filling:
- Divide the cheesecake filling in half. Fold the dissolved matcha mixture into one half until evenly colored.
- Assemble 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.
- Snowdrift topping (optional):
- Whip the cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks and pipe or spoon onto set cheesecake cups.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with a dusting of matcha powder if desired. Serve chilled.
Save These cheesecake cups always bring smiles at family gatherings, especially the kids who love swirling the matcha patterns themselves.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories, 19 g of fat, and 4 g of protein.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter, cream) and gluten in standard graham crackers. May contain traces of nuts depending on cookie brand.
Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Save This recipe is a simple but impressive dessert, perfect for any occasion with minimal prep time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the matcha swirl?
Whisk high-quality matcha powder with hot water until smooth, then fold into half of the cheesecake mixture before swirling together for a marbled effect.
- → Is gelatin necessary for setting?
Yes, gelatin helps the cheesecake cups set firmly without baking, providing a smooth and creamy texture.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies for the crust to accommodate gluten-free needs.
- → What is the purpose of chilling time?
Chilling allows the gelatin to set and the flavors to meld, ensuring the cheesecake cups hold their shape and develop richness.
- → How is the crisp base prepared?
The base is made by mixing crushed graham crackers or biscuits with melted butter, sugar, and salt, then pressing firmly into liners to form a compact crust.
- → Can I add toppings to these cups?
Yes, the optional whipped topping adds a light, airy finish, and garnishes like matcha powder, white chocolate curls, or fresh berries enhance presentation and flavor.