Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Experience the bliss of Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes, where creamy cheesecake meets sweet strawberry compote in a delightful single-serving form. Perfect for gatherings or as a treat to sweeten your day, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their gorgeous presentation and irresistible taste.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to ready it for the batter.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form a crust, setting the stage for the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
   • Fold in the chopped strawberries and strawberry jam gently, ensuring the fresh berries are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Fill and Bake:
   • Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cupcake liner.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly.
5. Prepare the Strawberry Compote:
   • While the cupcakes bake, prepare the compote. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
   • Cook until the strawberries have broken down and the mixture is syrupy. Add the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously, until the compote thickens.
6. Cool and Top:
   • Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan.
   • Top each cooled cupcake with a generous spoonful of the thickened strawberry compote.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Optionally, garnish each cupcake with a fresh strawberry slice or whole berry for an extra touch of elegance.
   • Serve the cupcakes chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the burst of fresh, creamy, and fruity flavors.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes bring the essence of a beloved dessert into a fun, portable treat that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for any season, they’re a hit at parties or as a luxurious everyday dessert.