🍰 Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups 🍋

Savor the swirl of tangy lemon and sweet raspberry in every bite! Perfect for dessert lovers looking to add a zesty twist to their meal.

🍽️ Ingredients 🍽️
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (or thawed frozen raspberries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for the raspberry swirl)

🧑‍🍳 Directions 🧑‍🍳
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the crust ingredients: Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon into the bottom of each liner. Bake for 5-7 minutes, then cool.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until creamy.
4. Cook the raspberry swirl: Over medium heat, mix raspberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then cool slightly.
5. Assemble the cups: Pour filling over crusts, filling 2/3 full. Add a spoonful of raspberry mix on top and swirl with a toothpick.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until centers are just set. Cool to room temperature.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
8. Serve garnished with raspberries, lemon zest, or whipped cream if desired.

🍎 Nutritional Information 🍎
- Calories: Approx. 280 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Proteins: 5g
- Fats: 18g

💡 Tips and Tricks 💡
- Enhance the lemon flavor by adding more juice or zest.
- Prepare these a day ahead for a stress-free dessert experience!

⏳ Preparation time ⏳
Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Serving: 12 servings.