Name: No-Bake Cheesecake Jars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 graham crackers); 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or heavy whipping cream, cold; 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons (30g) sour cream, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Toppings & garnishes (e.g., fruit, chocolate, caramel – optional)

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Cheesecake Jars Recipe

No baking required — perfect for summer or quick prep
Easy to assemble and customizable
Rich, creamy texture with a tangy, balanced flavor
Great for parties, picnics, or make-ahead desserts
Portable and perfectly portioned
Can be stored and enjoyed over several days
Versatile toppings for seasonal or personal flair
Uses simple, everyday ingredients
Kid-friendly and fun to make together
Beautiful presentation in jars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 graham crackers)
1 cup cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons sour cream, at room temperature
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Toppings and garnishes of choice (fruit, chocolate, caramel, nuts, etc.)

Directions

Prepare your jars: Line up 6 8-ounce jars or 10 6-ounce jars.
Make the crust: Melt butter in a bowl and stir in graham cracker crumbs until the texture resembles wet sand. Spoon about 2 tablespoons into each 8-ounce jar or 1 ½ tablespoons into 6-ounce jars. Set aside.
Whip the cream: In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3–4 minutes). Set aside.
Make the filling: Beat the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Make sure no lumps remain.
Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until fully incorporated.
Assemble: Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling into each 8-ounce jar (or about 3 tablespoons into 6-ounce jars), on top of the crust. Leave space for toppings.
Chill (optional): Chill jars for at least 30 minutes and up to 3 days. Cover if chilling for longer than 30 minutes.
Add toppings: Add desired toppings just before serving or up to 2 hours in advance.
Serve and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 6 servings in 8-ounce jars or 10 servings in 6-ounce jars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes to 3 days
Total time: 20–50 minutes (depending on chilling)

Variations

Berry Delight: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries and a drizzle of fruit sauce
Chocolate Swirl: Add mini chocolate chips or a layer of chocolate ganache
Tropical: Use mango puree, toasted coconut, and pineapple chunks
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or granola for added texture
Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin puree and spices to the filling for a seasonal twist
Lemon Zest: Add extra lemon juice and zest for a citrusy punch
Cookie Crust: Use crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers
Peanut Butter: Swirl in peanut butter or use peanut butter chips as topping
Salted Caramel: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt
Matcha Green Tea: Mix matcha powder into the cheesecake for a unique flavor

Storage/Reheating

Store assembled cheesecake jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If preparing in advance, wait to add the toppings until just before serving or within 2 hours of serving. These jars are not suitable for freezing as the texture may change. Reheating is not necessary since the dessert is best served chilled.

FAQs

What kind of jars should I use?

Use 8-ounce or 6-ounce mason jars, ramekins, or any small glass containers with lids for easy storage.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake jars can be made up to 3 days in advance. Add toppings just before serving for the best texture and appearance.

Can I freeze no-bake cheesecake jars?

Freezing is not recommended, as the filling may become grainy once thawed.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of whipping my own?

Freshly whipped cream gives the best texture, but stabilized whipped topping can be used in a pinch.

What toppings work best?

Fresh fruit, pie fillings, chocolate chips, cookie crumbs, caramel, or jam all make excellent toppings.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie alternatives for the crust.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor. Low-fat can be used but may result in a softer filling.

How long do they need to chill before serving?

They can be served immediately, but chilling for at least 30 minutes helps the filling set and improves flavor.

Is sour cream necessary?

Sour cream adds a slight tang and creamy texture. You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt if needed.

How do I prevent lumps in the filling?

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat thoroughly until smooth before adding other ingredients.

Conclusion

No-Bake Cheesecake Jars are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. With no oven required and endless ways to customize, they’re ideal for casual gatherings or special celebrations. Whether you’re topping them with fresh berries or rich chocolate, these portable treats are sure to impress every time.