- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
- Make Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely ground. Add melted butter and sugar, and pulse again until combined.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each cupcake liner. Press down firmly to create a compact crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Mix Cheesecake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth and combined.
- Fill Cupcake Liners:
- Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the graham cracker crust in each cupcake liner, filling almost to the top.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
- Bake in Oven:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly puffed. The centers should still have a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Chill:
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- Cook Strawberries:
- In a small saucepan, combine diced strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Top and Serve:
- Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake cupcakes just before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh strawberries or mint leaves for decoration.
- Storage:
- Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
- Chilling Time: Chilling the cupcakes thoroughly helps them set and enhances the flavors. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
- Variations: You can customize these cupcakes by using other fruit toppings like blueberries or raspberries, or adding a swirl of fruit preserves into the cheesecake batter before baking.
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes are perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy the creamy cheesecake and fruity strawberry topping in every bite!