Silky Cherry Cheesecake Jars Recipe

Dreamy No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars Recipe for Sweethearts

Summer’s sweet embrace calls for a no-bake cherry cheesecake jars recipe that melts hearts with each creamy spoonful.

Layered desserts have never looked more irresistible than these charming individual treats.

Silky cream cheese blends perfectly with tangy cherries, creating a dessert that feels both luxurious and effortless.

These jars pack a delightful punch of flavor without ever touching an oven.

Rich, velvety cheesecake mingles with bright cherry compote in a dessert that screams casual elegance.

The cool, smooth texture promises instant refreshment on warm afternoons.

Grab a spoon and dive into this simple yet spectacular summer sensation that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 325 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars

For Cherry Topping:
  • Cherries: Vibrant, juicy fruits that create a luscious, tangy sauce with natural sweetness.
  • Maple Syrup: Adds rich, caramel-like depth and balances the cherries' tartness.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor and helps prevent browning of the fruit.
  • Water: Helps create the perfect sauce consistency and prevents burning.
  • Cornstarch: Magical thickening agent that transforms the liquid into a silky, glossy topping.
For Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy, luxurious base that provides the classic cheesecake texture and richness.
  • Greek Yogurt: Adds tangy freshness and helps create a lighter, smoother filling.
  • Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener that brings subtle, complex sweetness.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, zesty note to cut through the richness.
For Graham Cracker Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, crunchy foundation with nostalgic graham flavor.
  • Butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds a rich, golden undertone.

Tools You’ll Need for Cheesecake Jars with Cherry Topping

  • Electric Mixer: Perfect for whipping the cheesecake filling to smooth, creamy perfection.
  • Medium Saucepan: Essential for cooking and thickening the cherry topping.
  • Medium Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining cheesecake filling ingredients.
  • Small Bowl: Great for mixing graham cracker crust.
  • 125mL Mason Jars: Cute serving containers for individual desserts.
  • Spatula: Helpful for scraping and mixing ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for delicious results.

How to Build No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars

  • Cherry Magic

Fresh, juicy cherries transform into a luscious sauce that brings vibrant color and tangy sweetness to this dreamy dessert. The cherries simmer gently with maple syrup, creating a rich, glossy topping that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake base.

  • Creamy Foundation

Soft cream cheese blends seamlessly with smooth Greek yogurt, creating a cloud-like filling that’s both light and indulgent. A touch of maple syrup and bright lemon juice elevates the flavor profile, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

  • Crunchy Base

Graham cracker crumbs melted with butter form a delectable foundation that adds irresistible texture and a warm, toasty note to the dessert. This crisp layer provides a perfect contrast to the silky cheesecake filling.

  • Jar Layering

Carefully build your dessert by first creating a firm graham cracker base in each mason jar. Gently pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the crust, then crown with the vibrant cherry sauce. Chill for an hour to let the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly.

Flavor Additions for Cherry Cheesecake Jars

  • Replace fresh cherries with frozen or canned varieties for year-round enjoyment. Experiment with different fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries to create unique flavor combinations.
  • Mix graham cracker crumbs with crushed almonds or pecans for added texture and nutty depth. Sprinkle cinnamon or cardamom into the crust mixture for a warm, aromatic touch.
  • Substitute full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version. Add a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the cheesecake's overall flavor profile.
  • Prepare these jars up to 3 days in advance, keeping them sealed in the refrigerator. Pack individual jars for picnics, potlucks, or quick dessert options that impress with minimal effort.

Serving No-Bake Cheesecake Jars in Style

  • Picnic Perfect Portable Dessert: Grab these adorable mason jars for outdoor summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or potluck parties where individual servings are super convenient.
  • Elegant Dessert Presentation: Stack these charming cheesecake jars on a rustic wooden board for a stunning dessert centerpiece that looks professionally crafted and Instagram-worthy.
  • Customizable Flavor Adventure: Experiment with different fruit toppings like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to create unique variations that match personal taste preferences or seasonal availability.
  • Make-Ahead Meal Prep Magic: Prepare these no-bake cheesecake jars up to 3 days in advance, storing them tightly sealed in the refrigerator for quick and delightful desserts that are ready whenever sweet cravings strike.

Storing Cheesecake Jars for Dessert Prep

  • Fridge-Friendly Delight: Store these cheesecake jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping them tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dessert 1-2 days before serving, allowing flavors to meld and the texture to become beautifully creamy and set.
  • Smart Portion Control: Individual mason jars make these cheesecakes perfect for meal prep, grab-and-go desserts, or bringing to potlucks without messy cutting or portioning.
  • Freezer Friendly Option: Wrap the sealed jars in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying, giving a quick gentle stir to restore the creamy texture.
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Silky Cherry Cheesecake Jars Recipe

Silky Cherry Cheesecake Jars


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4.9 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Cool no-bake cherry cheesecake jars provide creamy dessert perfection for summer gatherings. Layered graham cracker crumbs, smooth cream cheese, and fresh cherry compote create an irresistible treat you can quickly enjoy.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
  • 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup Greek yogurt, plain full-fat
  • 3 tbsps (45 ml) maple syrup, pure
  • ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 23 tbsps (3045 ml) butter, melted
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) lemon juice, fresh
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) water
  • 1 tsp (5 g) cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Cherry Sauce Preparation: Combine cherries, maple syrup, lemon juice, water, and cornstarch in a saucepan, simmering over medium heat until the mixture transforms into a thick, glossy compote. Let the sauce cool completely to intensify its flavor profile.
  2. Cheesecake Filling Creation: Blend softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and lemon juice using an electric mixer until achieving a velvety smooth consistency. Chill the mixture to enhance its creamy texture and firmness.
  3. Graham Cracker Base Construction: Merge melted butter with finely ground graham cracker crumbs until the mixture resembles damp sand. Distribute the crumb base evenly across mason jars, pressing firmly to create a compact foundation.
  4. Layering and Assembly: Carefully spread the chilled cheesecake filling over the graham cracker base, ensuring a uniform surface. Tap the jars gently to eliminate air pockets and settle the layer.
  5. Final Touches and Chilling: Generously top each jar with the cooled cherry sauce, creating a vibrant and enticing finish. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld and achieve optimal texture, or serve immediately for a more casual dessert experience.

Notes

  • Prevent Lumpy Filling: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature and mix thoroughly to achieve a silky, smooth texture without clumps.
  • Master Cherry Sauce Consistency: Stir constantly while simmering to prevent burning and create a glossy, thick compote that won’t separate.
  • Crust Packing Technique: Press graham cracker mixture firmly but gently into jar bottoms to create a stable, compact base that won’t crumble.
  • Chilling is Crucial: Refrigerate jars for at least one hour to allow flavors to develop and help the cheesecake layer set perfectly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sophie Martin

Sophie Martin

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  • Creating Balanced Recipes
  • Meal Planning
  • Food Safety
  • Teaching About Nutrition

Education

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Focus: Studying how food affects health, learning about balanced diets, and understanding the nutritional needs of different people.

South African Chefs Academy, Cape Town

  • Program: Professional Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Practical cooking skills, focusing on healthy meal preparation and understanding various cooking methods.

Sophie Martin is the nutrition brain and feel-good foodie at Good Tasting Meals. With a degree in Human Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and chef training from the South African Chefs Academy, Sophie brings balance to the table, literally. She loves creating meals that are easy to make, great to eat, and good for your body too.

Her recipes are made for everyday living, with a little flair and a lot of heart. Sophie’s not here to count calories, she’s here to show you how fresh, simple food can fit into your life, taste amazing, and still be nourishing.

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