Strawberry Cheesecake Jars (No Bake!)
Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are the kind of dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. There is no oven, no water bath, and no stress. Just layers of buttery biscuit crumbs, smooth cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping, all stacked into pretty little jars. These no bake jars are perfect for summer, entertaining, or anytime you want a quick dessert that still feels special. They are creamy, lightly sweet, and refreshing, with the strawberries adding a bright, fruity contrast to the rich cheesecake layer. Because they are made in individual portions, they are easy to serve, store, and even transport.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 jars
Ingredients
For the Crust Layer:
1 cup crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup cold heavy cream
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Strawberry Layer:
1½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Optional Garnish:
Fresh strawberry slices
Crushed biscuits
Mint leaves
Instructions
In a bowl, mix the crushed biscuits with melted butter and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand.
Divide the mixture evenly among jars and press gently to form the base layer. Set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes until strawberries soften and release juices.
Lightly mash the strawberries and let the mixture cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the cold cream until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
Layer cheesecake filling over the crust, spoon strawberry topping on top, and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips
Always use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
Cold cream whips better and creates a lighter texture.
Do not overwhip the cream or the filling can become grainy.
Let the strawberry topping cool fully before layering to keep clean layers.
Use clear jars or glasses for a visually appealing presentation.
Press the crust gently, not too firmly, to keep it tender.
Taste the strawberry topping and adjust sugar depending on sweetness of berries.
Chill the jars long enough for the layers to set properly.
For smoother strawberry topping, blend it briefly after cooking.
Assemble close to serving time if you prefer very crisp crust texture.
Variations
Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries.
Add a layer of chocolate ganache between crust and filling.
Use crushed chocolate biscuits for a cocoa crust.
Mix lemon zest into the cheesecake for extra freshness.
Swirl strawberry sauce into the cheesecake layer for a marbled look.
Add a spoon of strawberry jam if fresh strawberries are not available.
Make it lighter by using half cream cheese and half Greek yogurt.
Add crushed nuts to the crust for crunch.
Use honey instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
Create a mixed berry topping using seasonal fruits.
Q&A
Can I make these jars ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept chilled.
Do I need gelatin for this recipe?
No, the whipped cream helps the cheesecake set naturally.
Can I freeze strawberry cheesecake jars?
Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
Are these very sweet?
They are lightly sweet with a good balance of creaminess and fruit.
Can I use store bought strawberry sauce?
Yes, but homemade gives better flavor and freshness.
What can I use instead of jars?
Small glasses, cups, or dessert bowls work well.
Is this recipe kid friendly?
Yes, it is soft, creamy, and loved by kids.
Can I make it egg free?
This recipe is naturally egg free.
How long do leftovers last?
Up to 2 days in the refrigerator when covered.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales very easily for parties.
Nutrition
(Per Jar Approximate)
Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Jars are the perfect no bake dessert when you want something easy, elegant, and crowd pleasing. With creamy cheesecake, buttery crust, and fresh strawberry topping, every spoonful feels balanced and satisfying. They are ideal for warm days, dinner parties, or simple family treats. Once you try them, these jars are sure to become a go to dessert that you can adapt with endless flavors and variations.