Why You’ll Love No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars Recipe
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Perfectly portioned in jars for easy serving and storage
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No oven needed — just chill and enjoy
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Layers of texture: crunchy crust, creamy filling, and tender apples
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Great make-ahead dessert
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Customizable with different toppings or crusts
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Ideal for parties, potlucks, or gifting
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A fun twist on classic cheesecake
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Kid-friendly and easy to assemble
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Looks as good as it tastes
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Can be made gluten-free with simple swaps
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
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Unsalted butter, melted
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Cream cheese, softened
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Powdered sugar
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Vanilla extract
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Heavy whipping cream
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Apples, peeled and diced
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Brown sugar
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Ground cinnamon
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Nutmeg (optional)
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Lemon juice
Directions
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Make the crust: Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Spoon into the bottom of jars and press down lightly to form the crust layer.
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Prepare the apples: In a pan over medium heat, cook diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice until tender and slightly caramelized. Let them cool.
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Make the cheesecake filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
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Assemble the jars: Layer the cheesecake filling over the crust. Top with the cooled apple mixture.
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Chill: Refrigerate the jars for at least 2–3 hours before serving to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake set.
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Serve: Enjoy straight from the jar or garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed graham crackers for extra flair.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 individual jars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cook time (for apples): 10 minutes
Chill time: 2–3 hours
Total time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes (including chilling)
Variations
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
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Dairy-Free: Swap in plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream.
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple topping or crust.
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Maple Flavor: Replace some of the brown sugar with maple syrup in the apple mixture.
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Apple Pie Spice: Use apple pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
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Caramel Drizzle: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the filling and the apples.
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Boozy Kick: Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum to the apple mixture while cooking.
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Berry Topping: Substitute the apple topping with cooked-down berries for a summer version.
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Mini Cheesecake Cups: Use smaller jars or cups for bite-sized party portions.
Storage/Reheating
These no-bake cheesecake jars should be stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered or with jar lids on. They will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cheesecake filling may change.
Reheating is not necessary for this no-bake dessert — simply enjoy chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best as they hold their shape during cooking and balance the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day in advance and chill until ready to serve.
Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
Absolutely. While homemade apples taste fresher, store-bought apple pie filling works well if you’re short on time.
How long should the jars chill before serving?
Chill the jars for at least 2–3 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best flavor and texture.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, the recipe scales easily. Just double all ingredients and prepare in more jars or larger containers.
Do I need to line the jars?
No lining is needed. Just make sure the jars are clean and dry before layering your ingredients.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, peaches, pears, or berries can be used instead of apples for a seasonal twist.
What size jars should I use?
8-ounce mason jars or similar-sized dessert cups work well for individual portions.
Is there a low-sugar version?
You can reduce the sugar in both the filling and the apples, or use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Definitely. Kids can crush the crackers, mix the filling, and help layer the jars — it’s a fun, family-friendly activity.
Conclusion
No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars are a delicious, visually appealing, and simple dessert that captures the flavors of fall in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, these jars are a convenient and tasty way to enjoy cheesecake — no oven required.
