Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These no bake cherry cheesecake jars come together in minutes and require zero baking—just mix, layer, and chill. They’re simple to make yet look beautifully elegant when served in jars or glasses. You get all the rich, tangy flavor of traditional cheesecake, but with less effort and more portability. Plus, they’re portion-controlled and perfect for individual servings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy whipping cream (cold)
- Cherry pie filling
- Optional: lemon juice or zest for added brightness
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press about 2 tablespoons into the bottom of each jar or glass to form the crust.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust layer in each jar, filling about ¾ of the way up.
- Top with a generous spoonful of cherry pie filling.
- Chill the jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 individual cheesecake jars. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and chill time is at least 2 hours before serving.
Variations
- Berry Medley: Use a mixture of blueberry, raspberry, and strawberry toppings instead of cherry.
- Chocolate Crust: Substitute chocolate cookie crumbs for the graham cracker base.
- Lemon Cheesecake: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or juice to the filling for a citrus twist.
- Mini Cheesecake Bites: Use small shot glasses or mini jars for bite-sized versions.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cheesecake jars in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. These jars are best served chilled and do not require reheating. If using homemade fruit topping, store separately and add just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes, you can substitute whipped topping (like Cool Whip) for the whipped cream to save time.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softened cream cheese blends much more smoothly and prevents lumps in the filling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely—these jars are perfect for making a day or two in advance.
What kind of jars should I use?
Small mason jars, 4 oz glass jars, or even clear plastic cups work well for individual servings.
Can I freeze no bake cheesecake jars?
It’s not recommended, as freezing can affect the texture of the whipped cream filling.
How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Use just enough butter to bind the crumbs and press it firmly into the bottom of the jars. Assemble the same day if you’re worried about texture.
Can I make these with other pie fillings?
Yes, blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie fillings are all delicious options.
Can I make these without sugar?
You can reduce or replace the sugar with a low-carb or sugar-free alternative, adjusting to taste.
What if I don’t have a mixer?
You can use a hand whisk for the cream and a fork for the crust, but a mixer is highly recommended for a smooth filling.
Can I serve these at room temperature?
They’re best served chilled to maintain their structure and creamy texture.
Conclusion
No bake cherry cheesecake jars are the ultimate hassle-free dessert—sweet, creamy, and bursting with cherry flavor. With no oven required and easy, individual portions, these jars are perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Make them ahead, customize the toppings, and enjoy a decadent treat that looks just as good as it tastes.
PrintTasty No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars
No bake cherry cheesecake jars are creamy, tangy, and perfectly portioned desserts layered with buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and sweet cherry topping. These easy, elegant jars are ideal for parties, picnics, or make-ahead entertaining.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or zest
Instructions
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each jar to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice/zest. Mix until fluffy.
- In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar, filling about 3/4 full.
- Top each jar with cherry pie filling.
- Chill jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use jimmies for the best sprinkle effect if adding decoration—nonpareils may bleed color.
- For best texture, serve chilled and within 3–4 days.
- Swap graham cracker crumbs with chocolate or gluten-free cookies if desired.
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) can be used in place of homemade whipped cream.
- Customize with your favorite pie filling like blueberry, peach, or strawberry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
