These No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are the ultimate springtime dessert—light, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Layered in individual jars, they’re as adorable as they are delicious, making them perfect for parties, picnics, or a sweet treat at home. With no baking required and minimal effort, you can whip up these mini cheesecakes in no time. Plus, they’re customizable, portable, and oh-so-Instagrammable! Let’s layer up this delightful dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: No oven needed—just mix, layer, and chill.
- Individual Portions: Perfect for portion control and easy serving.
- Fresh & Seasonal: Highlight the sweetness of strawberries, a springtime favorite.
- Customizable: Add toppings like whipped cream, nuts, or chocolate shavings for extra flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets, crushed)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2–3 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice (to enhance sweetness and prevent browning)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Crushed graham crackers
- Mint leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Strawberry Layer
- In a medium bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with sugar and optional lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes to release their juices and create a syrupy consistency.
- Mash the strawberries lightly with a fork or potato masher if you prefer a chunkier sauce, or blend for a smoother texture.
2. Prepare the Crust
- In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crust mixture evenly among small jars or glasses (about 2–3 tablespoons per jar). Press gently to form an even layer at the bottom.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
