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No-Bake Cheesecake Jars

These individual no-bake cheesecake jars combine a creamy, tangy filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust, layered in portable glass jars. The process involves mixing softened cream cheese with sugar and flavorings, folding in whipped cream, and assembling the layers without any baking. The result is a smooth, chilled dessert with a satisfying contrast of textures and a charming presentation.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Graham cracker crumbs for crust
  • 2 tbsp Melted butter to bind the crust
  • 8 oz Cream cheese softened at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar or adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice brightens the filling
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream chilled and whipped
  • Fresh berries or toppings as desired for garnish

Equipment

  • Small jars or glasses
  • Zip-top bag and rolling pin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Refrigerator

Method
 

  1. Place graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or the back of a spoon.
  2. Mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and a pinch of salt until evenly coated and crumbly.
  3. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each jar, pressing down firmly to form a solid crust.
  4. Refrigerate the jars for 10 minutes to set the crust while you prepare the filling.
  5. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy—about 2 minutes.
  6. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until well incorporated and fragrant.
  7. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and airy, being careful not to deflate the cream.
  9. Spoon or pipe the creamy filling over the chilled crust in each jar, filling almost to the top.
  10. Cover the jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set fully.
  11. Before serving, garnish each jar with fresh berries or your favorite toppings for a colorful, inviting look.