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Easy No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Jars: Best 10-Minute Dessert

no-bake berry cheesecake jars - featured image

These easy no-bake berry cheesecake jars are the perfect 10-minute dessert. With a creamy cheesecake filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and a tart berry compote, they’re quick, simple, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Fresh berries (for garnish, optional)
  • Mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Whipped cream (for garnish, optional)
  • White chocolate shavings (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the berry compote: Add frozen mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries break down and release juices (5-7 minutes). In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour slurry into berry mixture while stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the graham cracker crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour melted butter over mixture and stir with a fork until all crumbs are evenly moistened (texture should resemble wet sand). Divide crust mixture evenly among 6-8 jars (about 2 tablespoons per jar). Press crumbs down firmly using the back of a small spoon or the bottom of a shot glass.
  3. Whip up the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth (about 2 minutes). Scrape down sides and bottom of bowl. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth (about 1 minute). In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (2-3 minutes). Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until no w…
  4. Assemble the jars: Spoon or pipe cheesecake filling into jars over the crust (about ¼ cup per jar). Smooth tops. Add a layer of cooled berry compote on top (1-2 tablespoons per jar). Optionally, repeat layers. Leave room at top for garnishes.
  5. Chill and set: Cover each jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The filling will firm up and flavors will meld together.
  6. Serve: Before serving, top each jar with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a mint sprig if desired.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese is non-negotiable for a smooth filling. Let compote cool completely before assembling to prevent melting the cheesecake layer. For best texture, chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. The flavors improve after a day in the fridge. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, berry cheesecake, easy dessert, 10-minute dessert, cheesecake jars, individual desserts, no-bake dessert