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Decadent Valentine’s Strawberry Swirl Cream Cheese Cups

strawberry swirl cream cheese cups - featured image

These creamy and fruity strawberry swirl cream cheese cups combine luscious cream cheese with a sweet strawberry puree swirl, creating a delightful dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing muffin tin

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberry Swirl: In a food processor, combine 1 cup hulled fresh strawberries, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Blend until smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Add water by teaspoon if puree is too thick.
  2. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  3. Make the Cream Cheese Base: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Add 1/4 cup sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, blend until combined.
  4. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until batter is silky and slightly thick.
  5. Assemble the Cups: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese batter into each muffin cup. Add about 1 teaspoon strawberry puree on top. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry puree into the cream cheese batter to create a marbled effect. Repeat until all batter and puree are used.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are set but centers are slightly jiggly.
  7. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Make sure cream cheese is softened for smooth blending. Use a toothpick gently to swirl the strawberry puree for a marbled effect. Avoid overbaking to keep cups moist with a slight jiggle in the center. Chill cups for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture. Use cornstarch in puree to prevent sinking. Can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use vegan alternatives for dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry swirl, cream cheese cups, Valentine’s Day dessert, easy dessert, creamy dessert, berry dessert, gluten-free dessert