Description
No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are a quick and easy no-bake dessert combining the zesty brightness of fresh key lime juice with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly portioned into jars, these refreshing, light, and indulgent treats require no oven time and are ideal for make-ahead servings, parties, or whenever you crave a citrusy, creamy dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipping cream, lightly whipped
Optional Toppings
- Fresh key lime slices
- Key lime zest
- Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries)
- Extra crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press an even layer of the mixture firmly into the bottom of each serving jar to create the crunchy base for the cheesecake.
- Mix the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually fold in the sweetened condensed milk, then stir in the fresh key lime juice and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the lightly whipped cream to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon and layer the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust inside each jar. Smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure a neat and even presentation.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled jars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set to a creamy, sliceable consistency.
- Add Final Touches: Before serving, garnish each jar with fresh key lime slices, a sprinkle of lime zest, berries, or an extra sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use cream cheese at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Fresh key lime juice delivers the best flavor—avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Fold whipped cream gently into the filling to maintain its light fluffiness and avoid deflating it.
- Press the crust firmly in the jars to prevent sogginess and give a satisfying crunch.
- Allow sufficient chilling time (at least 4 hours or overnight) to ensure proper set and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg