Forget the Plate: Mini Cheesecakes in Jelly Jars

Ever try to squeeze a whole cheesecake slice into your mouth and end up with crumbs all over your lap? Been there. I really wanted to skip the whole fork-and-plate thing, especially for a summer picnic or a quick dessert when I’m feeling lazy but still crave that silky creaminess.

These little jars of strawberry cheesecake happiness are like the rebellious cousin of the traditional dessert. No baking, no fuss—just graham cracker crumbs, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries layered in clear jars. You get to see every layer, every swirl of pink and white. They’re perfect to stash in the fridge, grab one when you need something sweet, and not feel guilty about the snacking part.

Sometimes I think the best recipes are the ones you can eat directly from the jar. It’s messy, honest, and surprisingly freeing.

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars

This dessert features layers of graham cracker crumbs, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries arranged in small jars. It is assembled without baking, resulting in a smooth, layered texture with a visually appealing presentation of vibrant pink and white layers.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 10 full sheets crushed
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced

Equipment

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Small jars or glasses
• Spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a mixing bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Divide evenly among jars and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to form a firm base.
   1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter
2. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a whisk until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Check for a consistent, lump-free texture.
   16 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3. Divide the cream cheese filling evenly over the graham cracker crusts in each jar, smoothing the top with a spoon or spatula for an even layer. Chill the jars in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set slightly.
   16 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake layer in each jar, creating a colorful, layered appearance. Press gently to embed the strawberries slightly into the filling if needed.
   1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. When ready, garnish with additional strawberries if desired, and serve chilled.
   1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries

Honestly, I might never go back to the traditional slice after these. Just a little spoonful from the jar is enough to remind me how simple ingredients make a real treat. And if I can do it with my eyes closed and no oven, so can you.