Description
Easy, creamy, and topped with fresh berries, these no bake berry cheesecake jars are perfect for parties, make-ahead treats, or stashing in the freezer for a rainy day dessert. No oven needed!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 5 ounces graham crackers (about 8 full crackers)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- Fresh blueberries, raspberries, and mint leaves for garnish
- Optional: lemon or lime zest
Optional Berry Compote
- 6 oz fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
Make Optional Compote(s)
- Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan, stirring to coat.
- Simmer over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Let cool for at least 10 minutes before using. Chill in the fridge until ready to use (compote will thicken as it cools!)
Make the crust
- Have eight 8 oz ball jars ready to go! Add all ingredients for the crust in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is completely combined.
- Spoon about 1½ tablespoons into each jar and press gently to form a base. Set aside or chill while you prepare the filling.
Make the filling
- In a large bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream and powdered sugar with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form (about 2 to 3 minutes on medium-high speed). Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined. Use a silicone spatula or the paddle attachment of your stand mixer on low.
Assemble the jars
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar.
- Top with fresh berries and/or cooled compote.
- Garnish with fresh mint and any leftover zest.
- Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to serve!
Notes
Freezer-friendly: Assemble jars without fresh berries, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then top with fresh berries or compote before serving.
No chill time needed: These cheesecake jars are ready to enjoy as soon as they’re assembled!
Compote variation: If you're using blueberries, try swapping the lemon juice and zest for lime—it adds a bright, citrusy twist that pairs beautifully.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American


