🍒 Easy Cherry Cheesecake Jars

Description

These Easy Cherry Cheesecake Jars are a no-bake, creamy, and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with a crunchy graham cracker crust, a smooth and velvety cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping, these single-serving jars are easy to make, serve, and store. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick sweet treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full crackers)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Topping:

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture evenly between 4-6 small jars or cups and press down to form the crust layer.
3. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
5. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Jars

7. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture over the crust layer in each jar. Smooth the top with a spoon.
8. Add a layer of cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving (or overnight for best results).
10. Enjoy chilled, garnished with extra graham cracker crumbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

✅ Make it Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangy, lower-fat version.
✅ Crust Alternative: Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers.
✅ Flavor Boost: Add a hint of almond extract to the cheesecake filling for an extra depth of flavor.
✅ Homemade Cherry Topping: Cook fresh or frozen cherries with 2 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp lemon juice until syrupy.
✅ Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.

Servings & Storage

• Servings: 4-6 individual jars
• Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 21g
• Fiber: 1g

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

Health Benefits

✔ Rich in Calcium – Cream cheese and heavy cream provide calcium for bone health.
✔ Source of Antioxidants – Cherries contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
✔ Portion-Controlled – Served in jars, making it easy to enjoy without overindulging.

Q&A Section

❓ Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These cheesecake jars taste even better after chilling overnight, making them perfect for meal prep or parties.

❓ Can I use a different fruit topping?
Absolutely! Swap cherries for strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry compote.

❓ How do I make it more firm?
If you prefer a firmer cheesecake filling, add 1-2 tablespoons of instant pudding mix or gelatin to the mixture.

❓ Can I make this without a mixer?
Yes! You can mix the cheesecake filling with a whisk and some elbow grease, but a hand mixer makes it much easier.

Enjoy your Easy Cherry Cheesecake Jars—a simple, elegant dessert perfect for any occasion! 🍒🍰✨