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Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes

Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes

Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes are creamy cheesecake-style treats with a buttery graham cracker crust, bright lemon flavor, and sweet raspberry swirls—perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 Cupcakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the crust:
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
For the filling:
  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice fresh squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup raspberry preserves
For topping
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Lemon slices
  • Whipped cream

Equipment

  • Muffin pan
  • Cupcake liners
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Spoon or small offset spatula
  • Toothpick (for swirling)

Method
 

Prep your pan
  1. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Make the crust
  1. In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Spoon about a tablespoon into each cupcake liner and press down firmly using the bottom of a glass or spoon. Set aside.
Mix the filling
  1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla, lemon juice, and zest until just combined.
Fill and swirl
  1. Divide the batter evenly over the crusts. Warm the raspberry preserves slightly so they’re easy to swirl. Drop about 1/2 teaspoon on top of each cupcake and swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer.
Bake
  1. Bake for 20–22 minutes or until the centers are mostly set but still slightly jiggly. Don’t overbake—cheesecake firms up as it cools.
Chill
  1. Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Garnish and serve
  1. Top with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, or a swirl of whipped cream if you’d like.