I saw this idea recently on another food blog and thought they were so cute. I wasn’t a fan of the cheesecake recipe offered though, so I thought I’d substitute in my favourite. I decided to document it here for anyone else who might like an alternative option.
Not only are these desserts really cute, they are actually very practical. They are perfect for lunch-boxes or for special gifts or treats for someone special. They would be great for picnics, too. Me, I love the portion size (saves me from over-indulging!)
This is my favourite no bake cheesecake recipe. As it is not baked, this cheesecake is not the firm, velvety type of cheesecake but more a smooth, creamy and lightly firm pudding. It’s very refreshing and light. And of course, easy, since there is no baking required.
Once made, you can keep these in the fridge or freeze them to enjoy over time.
No Bake Cherry Cheesecake in a Jar
Summary: These are a great way to enjoy a little treat now and again. Keep in the fridge or freeze.
Ingredients
- Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 Tbsp. granulated white sugar
- 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
- Cheesecake Filling:
- One 8-ounce (227 grams) pkg. cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated white sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipping cream (35%)
- Topping:
- One 21 oz. (595 grams) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- For the Graham Cracker Crust: In a large bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Place 1/4 cup of filling into bottom each jar. Use anything from your kitchen that has a flat bottom and will fit into the jar to press the crumb mixture down gently to level it (doesn’t need to be packed down hard, just enough to neaten it up). Place jars in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Cheesecake Filling: In a clean bowl of stand mixer or with your electric mixer, beat the whipping cream until soft peaks form. Remove to a separate bowl and set aside. In the bowl of your electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl then beat in the vanilla extract. Gradually fold or beat the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and well combined. (* I folded by hand to keep some of the lightness of the whipped cream)
- Remove jars from fridge and place a generous 1/4 cup of filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. If you have extra, just distribute amongst the jars. Smooth the top of the filling. Place lid on jars and refrigerate for about an hour, until firm. Remove from fridge and spoon a layer of the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake filling and gently spread evenly to the edges. Place lid back on jar and refrigerate for several hours or more. Once set, these can also be frozen. (*If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the refrigeration of the filling before putting on the cherry topping. It’s actually pretty firm so it’s not too difficult to spoon the topping on if you’re a bit gentle with it).
Prep time: 30 min | Cook time: 1 min | Total time: 31 min
Number of servings (yield): 6
Cheesecake recipe adapted from Joy of Baking
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Same Donna. I think my mom made a lot of these as well because when I eat it, I get that comforting, nostalgic feeling :)
My mom used to make a similar recipe in a pan, but being such a huge fan I could eat the whole pan! The jar idea is wonderful!!
I had plans of freezing some too, Pat but they were so popular, they were all gone in two days! Next time :) Hope you enjoy them.
This looks absolutely delightful. Can’t wait till fill the freezer with some of these treasures.