Mini Dessert Cups
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in these adorable Mini Dessert Cups, perfect for any occasion!
These Mini Dessert Cups are a delightful way to serve up individual portions of your favorite sweet treats. Whether it's for a party, a family gathering, or just a special evening at home, these cups are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Adorable presentation that wows guests
- Versatile filling options to suit every palate
- Light and satisfying, perfect for any occasion
Perfect for Every Occasion
Mini Dessert Cups are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic choice for any event. Whether it's a birthday party, a wedding reception, or a casual family gathering, these tiny treats add a touch of elegance to the dessert table. Their adorable size allows guests to enjoy a sweet bite without feeling overwhelmed, making them ideal for social settings where mingling is key.
These dessert cups can be customized for different themes and occasions. You can switch up the fillings based on the season, using pumpkin for fall events or a refreshing lemon mousse for summer gatherings. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that your Mini Dessert Cups will never become boring!
Easy to Make
One of the best aspects of Mini Dessert Cups is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal time, you can whip up a batch that will impress your guests. The graham cracker crust provides a sweet and crunchy base that complements the smooth filling perfectly, while the toppings add a pop of color and flavor.
Even if you're a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are so delightful that you'll want to make them again and again. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Healthier Treat Options
While dessert is often seen as an indulgence, Mini Dessert Cups can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor. By using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in the filling, you can reduce calories and fat content, making them a more guilt-free option. The fresh berries not only enhance the taste but also add a nutritious boost, providing antioxidants and vitamins.
You can easily adjust the sweetness of the filling by reducing the amount of powdered sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or agave. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary preferences while still delivering a delicious treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
For Topping
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chocolate shavings
- Mint leaves for garnish
Mix all the ingredients as per the instructions below.
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of mini dessert cups to form a base.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Cups
Divide the filling among the prepared bases in the dessert cups. Smooth the tops and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top each dessert cup with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, and a mint leaf. Enjoy!
Enjoy your delightful mini desserts!
Serving Suggestions
Mini Dessert Cups are best served chilled, making them a refreshing choice for warm weather events. Consider pairing them with a light beverage, like iced tea or sparkling water, to keep the mood festive. For a more decadent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
To make your dessert table even more appealing, arrange the cups on a tiered stand or a colorful platter. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also makes them easily accessible for guests. Don't forget to provide small spoons for easy serving!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftover Mini Dessert Cups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, but for the best texture and flavor, it's ideal to consume them within two days. You may want to add the toppings just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and vibrant.
For those looking to prepare in advance, you can make the crust and filling separately and assemble them on the day of the event. This method saves time and ensures that your dessert cups maintain their delightful texture and taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the base and filling a day in advance. Just assemble and garnish before serving.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative if preferred.
→ How long do these mini dessert cups last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to use nuts, caramel sauce, or any fruit you like.
Mini Dessert Cups
Delight in these adorable Mini Dessert Cups, perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Harriet Mason
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Base
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
For Topping
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chocolate shavings
- Mint leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of mini dessert cups to form a base.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Divide the filling among the prepared bases in the dessert cups. Smooth the tops and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.
Before serving, top each dessert cup with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, and a mint leaf. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g