Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes
Ingredients:
For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp sugar
  For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup strawberry puree
  For the Topping:
• Whipped cream
• Fresh strawberries (sliced)
• Crushed graham crackers (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Make the Crust:
   o In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
   o Press 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each cupcake liner to form the crust.
   o Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   o Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
   o Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   o Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree until everything is fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cupcakes:
   o Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crusts, filling each liner about ¾ full.
5. Bake:
   o Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the centers are set. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.
6. Chill: Refrigerate the cupcakes for at least 2 hours to set and firm up.
7. Top the Cupcakes:
   o Just before serving, top each cheesecake cupcake with whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and optionally, crushed graham crackers for extra texture.

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Enjoy these adorable, creamy strawberry cheesecake cupcakes as a delightful treat!