No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings together creamy cheesecake filling, sweet graham cracker crumbs, and fresh strawberries all layered beautifully in a little jar. The combination of textures—from the crunchy crust to the smooth, tangy cheesecake, and juicy strawberries—makes every spoonful a little celebration.
I love making these jars when I want something quick but still impressive, especially for potlucks or when friends pop by unexpectedly. The best part is that you don’t have to turn on the oven, so it’s a cool and simple dessert to whip up on a warm day. Plus, I like to add a little fresh mint on top to give it a pretty touch and a subtle fresh flavor that pairs so well with the strawberries.
Serving these in jars always feels special, almost like each person has their own personal dessert to enjoy. It’s fun to see everyone’s faces light up when they dig in. I also find that leftovers (if there are any!) keep well in the fridge, making them perfect to prepare a day ahead and have ready to go whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They create the crunchy base for your cheesecake jars. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well too.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dessert its rich, creamy texture. I recommend full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and smoothness. For a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipping cream adds airiness and lightness to the cheesecake filling. If you want a lower-fat option, try whipping some coconut cream instead for a dairy-free twist.
Strawberries & Jam: Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and texture, while the jam gives a glossy, sweet finish. You can substitute with other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, depending on what’s in season.
How Do I Get the Cheesecake Filling Light and Smooth?
The filling needs to be creamy and airy for a perfect no-bake cheesecake texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until totally smooth—no lumps! Using an electric mixer helps a lot.
- Whip the heavy cream separately until it holds stiff peaks. This means it’s thick enough to hold shape.
- Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and careful folding motions to keep the air in.
- Don’t overmix here, or you’ll lose the fluffy texture you worked for!
This method creates a light texture that’s creamy but not too dense or heavy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a large one for the cheesecake filling and a smaller one for the crust; it keeps things organized and easy to manage.
- Electric mixer – makes beating the cream cheese and whipping the cream quick and smooth with no lumps.
- Spoons or spatulas – perfect for folding the whipped cream gently into the filling and for layering the jars neatly.
- Small jars or dessert cups – these give each serving a cute, individual look and are easy to store in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries with mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries) for a colorful, tangy twist.
- Add a layer of lemon curd between crust and cheesecake for a bright, citrusy contrast I love in spring.
- Mix crushed nuts like almonds or pecans in the crust for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Stir a bit of cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolate cheesecake version that’s rich but still light.
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 crackers)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For The Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For The Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- Whole strawberries, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time so the cheesecake filling firms up nicely. Plan on making it ahead to enjoy a cool and creamy dessert ready to serve anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs look evenly moist and sandy.
2. Assemble the Crust Layer:
Divide the crumb mixture evenly into your jars, about 2 tablespoons per jar. Press down gently using the back of a spoon to make a firm, even base.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks—firm enough to hold shape.
5. Combine Filling:
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended and light. Don’t overmix to keep it airy.
6. Add Cheesecake Layer:
Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust layer in each jar and smooth the surface.
7. Prepare Strawberry Topping:
Mix diced fresh strawberries with strawberry jam or preserves in a small bowl until glossy and combined.
8. Add Strawberry Topping:
Spoon the strawberry mixture on top of the cheesecake layer in each jar.
9. Garnish:
Place one whole strawberry on top for a pretty, fresh finish.
10. Chill:
Refrigerate the jars for at least 4 hours to let the cheesecake set well.
11. Serve:
Enjoy your no-bake strawberry cheesecake jars chilled. Optionally, add a mint leaf for extra freshness and color.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Topping?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the jam to avoid a watery topping.
How Long Can I Store These Cheesecake Jars?
Store the jars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed within this time for freshness and texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the jars up to a day in advance and keep them chilled. Just add the fresh whole strawberry garnish right before serving to keep it looking perfect.
What Can I Substitute for Graham Cracker Crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed shortbread cookies work nicely as the crust base.
