Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C): Prepare your baking environment by preheating the oven. Line a cupcake pan with liners to ease the removal of the cupcakes later.
Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup crushed graham crackers, 3 tbsp sugar, and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated with the butter.
Press the crust: Spoon the graham cracker mixture into each cupcake liner, pressing down firmly to create an even base.
Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat together 2 packets (8 oz each) of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Add the eggs: Incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure the mixture is well combined.
Fold in the strawberries: Gently fold in 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cheesecake batter.
Fill the cupcake liners: Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, filling each liner about 3/4 of the way full to allow room for rising.
Bake: Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops are set and slightly golden. The cupcakes should have a slight jiggle but not be liquid.
Cool and refrigerate: Once removed from the oven, allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan. Transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavor.
Top and serve: Before serving, top each cupcake with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with extra chopped strawberries for a fresh finish.