Introduction
This No Bake Cheesecake In a Jar is the ultimate easy dessert that feels special. You get layers of buttery graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, and a sweet-tart cherry topping, all prepared ahead of time. It’s the perfect single-serving treat for picnics, parties, or a quick sweet craving.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 9 graham crackers (1 whole sleeve)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups tart cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
Instructions
- Make the Graham Cracker Crust: Place the 9 graham crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush finely with a rolling pin. Transfer to a bowl and mix with the 2 teaspoons granulated sugar and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Pour in the 4 tablespoons of melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Prepare the Cherry Topping: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup sugar and ¼ cup cornstarch. Add the 4 cups of pitted tart cherries and their juices. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Whip the Cream: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the 1 cup of heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the ⅓ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor), and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Beat until fully combined.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no white streaks remain.
- Assemble the Jars: In each of 6 jars or glasses (about 8-12 oz each), layer 2-3 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture, pressing it down lightly. Top with a generous layer of the cheesecake filling, then a layer of the cooled cherry topping. Repeat layers once more, finishing with a sprinkle of any remaining crust crumbs.
- Chill: Refrigerate the jars for at least 4 hours, or until set, before serving.
Variations
- Create a Swirl: For a marbled effect, gently swirl a spoonful of the cherry topping into the cheesecake filling layer before adding the final topping.
- Cookie Swap: Substitute the graham crackers with crushed chocolate wafer cookies or gingersnaps for a different crust flavor.
- Individual Parfaits: Serve in clear glasses for a beautiful parfait-style presentation, perfect for entertaining.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a bright, citrusy note.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the heavy cream; it will whip up faster and hold its shape better.
- For a neat presentation, use a piping bag to add the cheesecake filling layer.
- Let the cherry topping cool completely before assembling to prevent it from melting the creamy layers.
Storage & Reheating
Store assembled jars, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cherry topping and cheesecake filling can be stored separately for up to 4 days. This dessert is served cold and should not be reheated.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen tart cherries. Thaw them first and make sure to include all the juices that are released in the saucepan.
Why is my cheesecake filling runny?
This usually happens if the cream cheese was too cold or the heavy cream was not whipped to stiff peaks. Ensure both are at the correct consistency before mixing.
Can I make this dairy-free?
The recipe as written requires dairy. For a dairy-free version, you would need to substitute the cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream, which changes the core ingredients.
How far in advance can I make these?
You can assemble the jars completely up to 24 hours in advance. For best texture, it’s not recommended to make them more than a day ahead.
What can I use if I don’t have jars?
Any clear glassware, such as parfait glasses, tumblers, or even sturdy plastic cups will work perfectly.
Is the cherry topping necessary?
No, it’s a delicious component but you can enjoy the no-bake cheesecake layers on their own or with a different sauce you have on hand.