Ingredients
Method
- In a food processor, combine the graham cracker sheets, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Pulse the mixture until it resembles moist sand. If you don't have a food processor, place the graham crackers in a Ziploc bag and crush them with a rolling pin, then mix with sugar and butter in a bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, add your softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese.
- Grab your individual serving cups (9-ounce clear plastic cups work perfectly). Spoon a generous layer of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each cup. Gently press it down with the back of a spoon to create a firm base.
- Carefully spoon a layer of the creamy cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each cup. Spread it evenly to create a distinct layer.
- Next, add a layer of the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake mixture. You can spread it gently or leave it slightly mounded.
- If your cups are large enough, repeat the layers: add another graham cracker layer, followed by more cheesecake filling, and then a final layer of cherry pie filling. You can finish with a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs on top for garnish.
- Once all your cups are assembled, place them in the refrigerator. Chill them for at least 1 hour, or preferably longer, until they are firm and well-set. This chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to firm up and for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When ready to enjoy, simply grab a spoon and dig in! No cutting required. These are best served cold.
Notes
For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling. Don't skip the chilling time; refrigerating for at least 1-3 hours (or overnight) allows the cheesecake mixture to set properly. When storing leftovers, cover the cheesecake cups tightly with plastic wrap; they will last up to 5 days in the fridge. For variations, try different pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry, add chocolate, or use crushed Nilla wafers or Oreo cookies for the crust.
