1. Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

The strawberry sauce is a crucial element that adds both flavor and color to the dessert. Start by combining the frozen strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the strawberries have softened and released their juices.

Once softened, mash the strawberries with the back of a spoon or a potato masher to break them down further. This step will create a smoother texture and release more liquid, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Next, in a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. This is a mixture that will thicken the sauce without clumping. Add the slurry to the strawberry mixture while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the sauce aside to cool. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week if made in advance.

2. Make the Pretzel Crust

While the strawberry sauce cools, it’s time to prepare the pretzel crust. Begin by crushing the pretzels. You can do this by placing them in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin or the bottom of a pan to crush them into small crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for a quicker result.

In a small bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly coated. The butter should help bind the pretzel crumbs together, making it easy to press into the cups.

Spoon the crust mixture into the bottom of 28 small dessert cups. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press the crumbs into the bottom, ensuring the crust is compact. This step will help the crust hold together once the dessert is assembled. Refrigerate the cups for at least 15 minutes to let the crust set.

3. Prepare the Vanilla Cheesecake Filling

Next, you’ll make the smooth and fluffy cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth and well combined. The key here is to make sure the cream cheese is soft and easy to blend so that there are no lumps.

Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, add the heavy cream and increase the speed to medium-high. Continue to whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, forming stiff peaks. The whipped cream helps create a soft, airy texture for the cheesecake filling.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake Cups

Now, it’s time to assemble the dessert cups. Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully pipe or spoon the cheesecake filling into the prepared cups. Fill each cup until it’s about three-quarters full, leaving some room for the strawberry sauce. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or the tip of a knife to make it even.

Once the cheesecake is in place, spoon the homemade strawberry sauce over the top of each cup. You can add as much or as little as you prefer, depending on how fruity you want each bite. If you have extra pretzel crumbs, sprinkle them on top for added texture and flavor. The combination of the creamy filling, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pretzel is the perfect balance.

5. Chill the Dessert Cups

To ensure everything sets properly, cover each dessert cup with a lid or plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours. The filling will firm up, and the flavors will have time to meld together. This chilling process is crucial for the perfect texture and flavor. If you’re making these cups in advance, they can be stored in the fridge overnight.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cups have chilled and the flavors have developed, they’re ready to serve. The pretzel crust will stay crisp, while the cheesecake filling will be creamy and smooth. The strawberry sauce will add a refreshing burst of fruitiness that ties everything together. These cups are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or casual family dinner.