No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are a delightful treat that brings together creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust—all layered beautifully in little jars. These jars make…
Tip: save now, cook later.No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are a delightful treat that brings together creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust—all layered beautifully in little jars. These jars make for a perfect individual dessert that looks as good as it tastes, with the bright red strawberries adding a fresh pop of color.
I love how quick and easy these jars come together, especially when I want to skip turning on the oven. The no-bake cheesecake filling is smooth and rich, but still light enough to enjoy without feeling too heavy. Plus, having everything in a jar means less mess and super simple serving, which always makes me happy.
These cheesecake jars are a hit at any gathering—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a picnic in the park. I often keep a few in the fridge, ready to grab when a sweet craving hits. They’re like little bites of summer, perfect for sharing or saving just for yourself.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These create the crunchy base. If you don’t have graham crackers, try digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla cookies—they give a similar texture and sweetness.
Cream cheese: This is the heart of the cheesecake filling. Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps. For a lighter version, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Heavy cream: It’s whipped to add fluffiness. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well, but it will add a slight coconut flavor.
Strawberries: Fresh is best for that juiciness and bright flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen berries or even raspberries work nicely as a substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy, Lumpy-Free Cheesecake Filling?
Softening your cream cheese is key! Leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before mixing. Beat it on medium speed until smooth before adding sugar and vanilla.
- Beat cream cheese alone first to get rid of lumps.
- Add powdered sugar gradually, keeping the mix fluffy.
- Fold the whipped cream in gently, using a spatula, not a mixer. This keeps the filling light and airy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – a couple of different sizes help keep wet and dry ingredients separate and make mixing easier.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes whipping cream and creaming cream cheese smooth and quick.
- Spatula – perfect for folding whipped cream into the cheesecake filling without deflating it.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right for best results.
- Small jars or clear glasses – great for layering and serving the cheesecake in individual portions.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist and color contrast.
- Add a layer of lemon curd for a zesty, fresh kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Mix in crushed toasted nuts (like pecans or almonds) into the crust for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Stir a little cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolate cheesecake jar variation that’s rich yet light.
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For The Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For The Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Time Needed
You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes preparing the layers. After assembling, the jars need to chill in the fridge for at least 3 to 4 hours, or preferably overnight, so the cheesecake filling can set perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each small jar to form the crust layer. Chill the jars in the fridge while you prepare the other layers.
2. Make the Strawberry Topping:
In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to soften and release their juices.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Using a mixer, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix well. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Jars:
Spread a thick layer of cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar. Add a layer of the macerated strawberries on top, including some of their juice for moisture. If you like, add another small layer of filling, then finish by topping with a few strawberry slices and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the jars and refrigerate them for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight for best results. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious no-bake strawberry cheesecake jars!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that can make the cheesecake watery. After thawing, gently pat them dry with paper towels before using.
How Long Can I Store These Cheesecake Jars?
Store the jars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed within this timeframe to keep the crust crisp and the strawberries fresh.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the jars the day before you plan to serve them. Just keep them refrigerated and add the final strawberry topping right before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Graham Cracker Crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla cookies, or even crushed pretzels can work well as substitutes to create a tasty crust.