The smooth, tangy cream cheese filling meets crunchy bits of Oreo in this heavenly no-bake dessert. Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups are the perfect solution for hot days when turning on the oven is not an option. Whether you’re planning a party, picnic, or just treating yourself, these layered treats deliver indulgence with every spoonful.
Best of all, they’re easy to whip up and even easier to devour. The individual serving size makes them fun and portable, while the rich, cookie-studded flavor ensures they’ll be gone in no time. Make them ahead, chill, and watch your guests swoon over the creamy dreaminess packed into each cup!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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15 Oreo cookies, crushed (plus extra for garnish)
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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6 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped
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Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Oreos and melted butter until evenly combined.
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Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each small serving cup or jar to form the crust.
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In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla and beat until combined and creamy.
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In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
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Fold in the chopped Oreos.
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Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into the cups over the crust layer.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
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Garnish with whipped cream and extra crushed Oreos if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chill time)
Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate No-Bake Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups
No-bake desserts are a game-changer when it comes to quick and easy indulgence. Among them, few are as irresistible as Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups. These little treats combine the nostalgic crunch of Oreo cookies with the smooth richness of whipped cheesecake filling, delivering a dessert that feels both comforting and luxurious. Perfect for any occasion, they come together in minutes and require only a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
These individual-sized desserts are perfect for those moments when you need something impressive but don’t want to fuss with the oven. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner party, a picnic in warm weather, or a kid-friendly dessert bar, these cheesecake cups are the go-to recipe that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and visually stunning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups is their simplicity. There’s no baking, no complicated layering techniques, and no water baths—just good old-fashioned mixing, whipping, and chilling. This makes the recipe perfect for beginners or for busy bakers who want a crowd-pleasing dessert without the hassle.
The texture is another reason to fall in love. The base is made from crushed Oreos and butter, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, mousse-like cheesecake filling. The filling itself is a perfect blend of tangy cream cheese and lightly sweetened whipped cream, enhanced with the iconic flavor of crushed Oreo cookies folded right in.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the versatility. It’s ideal for individual portions served in jars, glasses, or even paper cups, making it easy to prepare ahead of time. You can dress them up with extra whipped cream, Oreo crumbles, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a more decadent touch.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups are the kind of dessert that’s always a hit. Their small size makes them an excellent option for parties, buffets, or events where guests might prefer to sample a few different desserts rather than commit to one large slice. Because they can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve, they’re a practical choice for entertaining.
They’re also fantastic for family nights, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet surprise in a lunchbox or picnic basket. If you’re hosting a birthday party or a baby shower, you can even customize the presentation by using themed cupcake liners or coordinating colors.
And let’s not forget how kid-friendly they are. From crushing the cookies to scooping the creamy filling into jars, little hands can help at nearly every stage of the process—making it a great family activity that ends in dessert!
Tips for the Best Cheesecake Cups
While this recipe is nearly foolproof, a few tips will help you get the best possible results every time.
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Use full-fat cream cheese. This gives the filling the best texture and flavor. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature before mixing so it blends smoothly without lumps.
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Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This ensures your filling is light, airy, and stable. Under-whipped cream can lead to a runny texture.
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Chill thoroughly. Give your cheesecake cups at least two hours in the fridge before serving. This helps them firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Crush the cookies well for the base. A fine crumb gives a more cohesive crust layer, while chunkier pieces can make it fall apart.
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Fold gently. When combining the whipped cream and crushed cookies with the cream cheese mixture, use a folding motion to keep the filling light and fluffy.
Variations to Try
This recipe is incredibly flexible and open to interpretation. While Oreo cookies are the classic choice, you can easily switch them out or add other flavors to create a whole new dessert experience.
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Flavored Oreos: Swap classic Oreos for mint, peanut butter, or birthday cake flavors to put a fun twist on the recipe.
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Fruit swirl: Add a spoonful of raspberry jam or lemon curd into the filling for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor.
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Chocolate lovers’ version: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate between the layers.
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Nutty delight: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, pecans, or almonds over the top for a satisfying crunch.
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Liqueur kick: Add a splash of Baileys or Kahlua to the filling for an adult-friendly version.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its ability to be made ahead. You can prepare the cheesecake cups up to 2–3 days in advance, making them a stress-free option for events and gatherings. Store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing other fridge odors.
If you’re making a large batch, store them in airtight containers or wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap. For best texture and taste, avoid freezing the assembled cups, as the cream can separate when thawed.
However, you can freeze the cream cheese filling separately (without the whipped cream folded in) for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and whip up fresh cream to fold in before assembling.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation plays a big role in the appeal of these dessert cups. Here are some ways to elevate the look for your guests:
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Layer in mini mason jars for a rustic, Instagram-worthy effect.
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Serve in clear disposable cups with a spoon for effortless party cleanup.
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Use cocktail glasses for a more elegant, plated dessert look.
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Top with edible glitter or sprinkles for festive occasions.
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Drizzle with chocolate ganache or caramel sauce just before serving for a restaurant-style finish.
If you want to take it even further, consider tying a little ribbon around the serving jars, especially if you’re gifting them or offering them at a bake sale or party.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a slightly lighter version of this recipe, here are a few swaps you can try without sacrificing too much flavor or texture:
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Use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt cream cheese as a base.
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Replace some or all of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess.
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Choose sugar-free sandwich cookies to reduce added sugars.
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Use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or stevia instead of granulated sugar.
These alternatives won’t perfectly replicate the original, but they can help you align the recipe more closely with specific dietary needs or preferences.
Conclusion
Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Cups are a modern classic that brings together all the beloved elements of a full-size cheesecake—rich creaminess, satisfying crunch, and indulgent sweetness—in a perfectly portioned, no-bake format. Their simplicity and adaptability make them ideal for any level of baker, from beginner to expert. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual gathering or a formal celebration, these creamy cups are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
What makes them truly special is the balance between ease and elegance. You don’t need fancy tools or hours in the kitchen to create a dessert that looks polished and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery. With just a few steps and a little chill time, you’ll have a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the oven and opt for these delightful no-bake cheesecake cups. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.