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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake in a Jar

no-bake strawberry cheesecake in a jar - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake strawberry cheesecake layered in mason jars, perfect for summer gatherings and last-minute desserts. This creamy, fresh, and portable treat combines a crunchy graham cracker crust, fluffy cheesecake filling, and sweet strawberry topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham crackers, crushed (coarse crumbs preferred)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed, about 3 minutes.
  2. Layer the crust: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crust mixture into the bottom of each mason jar. Press down gently to create a firm base. Set aside or refrigerate while preparing filling, about 5 minutes.
  3. Make the strawberry topping: In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and let macerate for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, beat cold heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
  6. Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture in thirds using a spatula, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Assemble the jars: Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar, filling about halfway. Add a layer of strawberry topping, then repeat with another layer of filling if space allows. Garnish with strawberry slices or a whole berry.
  8. Chill: Cover jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and meld flavors.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to avoid lumps. Use cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl for best whipping results. Fold whipped cream gently to keep filling airy. Macerate strawberries for at least 10 minutes to create a syrupy topping. Chill for at least 4 hours for best texture; freezing for 1-2 hours is possible but may affect texture. Use piping bag for neater jar layers. Garnish with mint or extra berries for presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, cheesecake in a jar, summer dessert, easy dessert, no oven dessert, picnic dessert