Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Berry Cheesecake Cups

To show the result of assembling the cheesecake cups.

Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Berry Cheesecake Cups
September 18, 2024

Why We Chose This Recipe

This dorm-friendly recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation, which is great when looking for an easy-to-make dessert. These mini-cheesecakes are fresh, delicious, and colorful – perfect for a party!

Berry Cheesecake Cups

Recipe adapted from countrysidecravings
Yield: Approximately 6 cups

Ingredient

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
  • 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
  • Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  2. Place a spoonful of crushed graham crackers at the bottom of each cup (clear cups are ideal for presentation). For a whole grain option, consider Annie’s Honey Graham Crackers, or another whole wheat option.
  3. Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker base, filling each cup about halfway.
  4. Top with a generous layer of mixed berries.
  5. Option to refrigerate the cups for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to set slightly.
  6. Garnish with mint leaves just before serving for a refreshing touch.
To Show Students working on sweetening the cheesecake mixture.
 Honey was added to the cheesecake mixture after the cream cheese and Greek yogurt were incorporated.

What We Liked

  • We loved how beautifully the ingredients layered in the cups, almost like creating a colorful decoration.
  • These cheesecake cups are quick and easy to make. They can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. We always love an easy recipe for busy student life!
  • These cheesecake cups smelled amazing thanks to the use of vanilla extract in the cheesecake batter.
        To Show Students crushing the graham crackers for the cheesecake base.
        Students are having fun as they destress by crushing gram crackers.

        Suggestions

        • For a dairy-free option, consider substituting the Greek yogurt and cream cheese with soy-based yogurt and vegan cream cheese. 
        • If fresh berries aren’t available, don’t worry—we used thawed frozen berries, which still led to colorful and tart cheesecake cups.
        • Feel free to mix different types of berries or stick with a single type for a more uniform flavor.
        • You can also make the cheesecake base layer with crushed oat cookies, flour mixed with melted butter, or nuts and chopped dates in place of graham crackers.

        Nutritional Value

        • Berries are rich in antioxidants, which are molecules that protect cells from damage and are associated with disease prevention.
        • Greek yogurt provides calcium and vitamin D for bone health and is a rich source of protein.
        • The use of whole-grain gram crackers or dates and nuts for the cheesecake base provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

        September 18, 2024
        Ashly Estrada, Nutrition Student