Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes are sweet, creamy, and bite-sized desserts that deliver all the deliciousness of lemon cheesecake in a convenient mini form. With a graham cracker crust, smooth ricotta cheesecake filling, and a tangy lemon curd topping, these cupcakes are perfect for parties or celebrations. They’re simple to make, store well, and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup Graham Crackers, pulsed into crumbs
3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
3 1/2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted

For the Ricotta Cheesecake Filling:

12 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese, at room temperature
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
2 large Eggs plus 1 Egg Yolk, at room temperature
1 1/2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
1/3 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest
1/2 cup Lemon Curd

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, lightly spray with non-stick spray, and set aside.
Make the Crust: In a food processor, pulse graham crackers, sugar, and salt into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and stir to combine. Add 1 heaping tablespoonful to each muffin cup, pressing firmly into an even layer. Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Filling: Using a blender, food processor, or mixer, beat cream cheese and ricotta until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, beating until combined. Beat in eggs and yolk, one at a time. Stir in flour, lemon juice, and zest until just combined.
Divide the filling evenly among the muffin cups, pouring over the crust (about 1/3 cup each). Bake for 22–24 minutes, until set at the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool for 5 minutes.
Cool completely on a rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Once chilled, top each cupcake with a teaspoon of lemon curd. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrients (Approximate per cupcake)

Calories: 200
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 15g

Why Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes Are a Perfect Choice

These cupcakes are versatile and can fit seamlessly into a variety of occasions. The use of ricotta cheese in the filling gives the dessert a light yet creamy texture, making it an excellent alternative to heavier traditional cheesecake. Additionally, the citrusy brightness of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the richness, ensuring that each bite feels balanced and satisfying. The mini format adds convenience, as there’s no need for slicing or plating, making them mess-free and easy to serve.

Their elegant appearance, with the golden graham cracker base, creamy cheesecake middle, and vibrant lemon curd topping, also makes them visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a bridal shower, celebrating a birthday, or looking for a sweet treat to brighten up a dull day, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.

Key Features of Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes

Perfectly Balanced Flavor Profile: The tangy lemon complements the creamy cheesecake filling, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and sour. The graham cracker crust adds a nutty, buttery depth, tying all the layers together.
Ideal Texture Combination: The crispy crust contrasts beautifully with the silky cheesecake filling and smooth lemon curd topping, providing a delightful mouthfeel.
Convenient Serving Size: Being bite-sized, these cupcakes are perfect for individual servings. This also makes portion control simpler and minimizes leftovers.
Make-Ahead Dessert: These cupcakes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them ideal for busy hosts or meal prepping dessert lovers.
Customizable: While lemon is the star of the show, you can experiment with other fruit toppings like raspberry, blueberry, or even passionfruit curd for a unique twist.

The Role of Ricotta in Cheesecake

Ricotta cheese is a key ingredient in these cupcakes, and it sets them apart from traditional cheesecakes. Known for its creamy and slightly grainy texture, ricotta adds a lightness to the cheesecake filling that makes these cupcakes less dense. Additionally, its mild flavor allows the lemon and vanilla notes to shine, ensuring the dessert remains fresh and vibrant.

Graham Cracker Crust: The Foundation of Flavor

The crust is more than just a base for these cupcakes; it plays a significant role in adding flavor and texture. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a slightly crunchy contrast to the creamy filling and delivers a subtle sweetness with a hint of nuttiness. Baking the crust before adding the filling ensures it remains crisp and doesn’t become soggy after refrigeration.

The Lemon Curd Topping: A Tangy Finishing Touch

Lemon curd is the crowning jewel of these cupcakes. Its glossy, vibrant appearance instantly elevates the dessert’s aesthetic, while its tangy flavor enhances the overall taste. The tartness of the curd cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, making each bite feel balanced and refreshing. Additionally, the lemon curd can be piped, swirled, or spread thinly, depending on the desired presentation.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature cream cheese, ricotta, and eggs ensures a smooth, lump-free filling. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle or not mix evenly.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes. Mix the ingredients just until combined for the best texture.
Cooling Gradually: Allowing the cupcakes to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar helps prevent them from cracking due to rapid temperature changes.
Refrigeration is Key: Cheesecake needs time to set and develop its flavors. Chilling the cupcakes for at least four hours (preferably overnight) enhances the texture and taste.
Decorative Touches: For an extra decorative element, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a thin lemon slice on top of the lemon curd.

How to Serve Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes

These cupcakes are versatile and can be served as is, but there are ways to enhance the presentation for special occasions:

Serve them on a tiered dessert stand for a touch of elegance.
Pair them with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for added color and flavor.
Offer alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the tangy and creamy flavors with a warm beverage.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes store exceptionally well, making them a convenient dessert option. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to five days. If you’re planning to serve them later, you can even freeze the cupcakes without the lemon curd topping. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and add the topping before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes are a must-try dessert for anyone who loves the tangy sweetness of lemon combined with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Their bite-sized format, beautiful presentation, and balanced flavor make them a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cupcakes are straightforward to make and will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection.

With their rich graham cracker crust, light ricotta filling, and tangy lemon curd topping, these cupcakes deliver a delightful flavor experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So why not whip up a batch and savor the perfect blend of creamy, zesty, and sweet in every bite? These Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake Cupcakes are sure to become a cherished favorite!

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