No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars

Name: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp sugar

Highlighted under: Cakes & Cravings

I absolutely love making No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars, especially during the warmer months. The combination of creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries is simply irresistible. It's quick to prepare and requires no oven, which means I can spend more time enjoying the sunshine. Plus, it’s a fun and easy dessert to whip up for gatherings. Each layer in the jar adds a delightful visual appeal, making it a perfect treat to impress friends and family without a lot of fuss.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:07:23.286Z

When I first tried making No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding the process was. I decided to use a mixture of cream cheese and whipped cream for a velvety texture, which beautifully contrasts with the tartness of fresh strawberries. I learned that letting the mixture chill for a bit enhances the flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.

This recipe is perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings. By layering the cheesecake filling and strawberry compote in jars, not only do I create an eye-catching dessert, but I also make serving effortless. I always opt for fresh strawberries; they bring the right amount of sweetness and vibrancy to each jar!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy cheesecake with a hint of tanginess from the strawberries
No baking required, making it a quick and easy dessert option
Perfectly portable in jars, ideal for parties or picnics

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars is the classic cream cheese filling. The cream cheese provides the rich, creamy texture that we associate with cheesecakes. Choosing a high-quality brand will ensure that your filling is smooth and not overly tangy. The heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks, adds an airy lightness to the mixture, contrasting beautifully with the dense cream cheese. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling.

Fresh strawberries not only contribute wonderful flavor but also vibrant color, and they add a natural sweetness that complements the tanginess of the cheesecake. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, adjusting the sugar accordingly. The addition of lemon juice in the strawberry topping brightens the flavors—this is essential, especially if your berries aren’t quite ripe.

Layering Techniques

Layering is the key to making these jars visually appealing. Start by ensuring each layer is level and neat; a small offset spatula is great for this purpose. When spooning in the cheesecake filling, take care not to disturb the crust below. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the filling evenly, ensuring that it touches the sides of the jar for a beautiful striped effect. This not only looks good but should also help the flavors mix as you dig in.

When you prep your layers, you can experiment with the order to create unique flavor experiences. For instance, try adding a small layer of blended strawberries into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect. Remember to be generous with the strawberry topping at the end; it not only tastes great but also creates a beautiful contrast with the creamy white cheesecake.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Divide the mixture evenly among four jars, pressing it down to create a firm layer.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to release juices and create a syrup.

Layer the Ingredients

Spoon a layer of the cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar, followed by a layer of the strawberry mixture. Repeat the layers until the jars are filled, ending with the strawberry topping.

Chill and Serve

Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy your chilled No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of almond extract to the cheesecake filling or experimenting with other berries for the topping.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars can be prepared a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for gatherings. Simply layer the jars as per the instructions and store them in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days stored this way, but the texture of the strawberries may change slightly as they sit. For the best quality on the day of serving, prepare the strawberry topping just a few hours before you plan to enjoy them.

If you find yourself with leftover cheesecake filling, use it creatively! It can be spread on toast or served with fruit. Just keep in mind that the whipped cream may lose some volume if stored for too long, so enjoy it fresh when possible.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making cheesecakes is ending up with a lumpy filling. This typically happens if the cream cheese isn’t softened properly. Always leave your cream cheese at room temperature for about an hour before mixing. If you forget this step, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds—just be careful not to melt it.

Another area to watch out for is the crust. If it’s too crumbly, it may not hold together well. Ensure that the butter is fully melted and mixed evenly into the graham cracker crumbs. You want the mixture to resemble wet sand—it should hold together when squeezed. If you find it crumbles too easily, consider adding an extra tablespoon of melted butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid from frozen strawberries before using them.

→ How long can I store the cheesecake jars?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but they're best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

→ Is there a substitute for graham crackers?

Sure! You can use digestive biscuits or make a crust with ground nuts if you prefer a gluten-free option.