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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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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Luscious Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time:: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 Cupcakes
Calories: 290kcal

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)

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

Instructions

Prep your pan

  • Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

Make the crust

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Garnish and serve

  • Top with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, or a swirl of whipped cream if you’d like.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g