Description
No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are rich, creamy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. These easy, no-bake desserts feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious key lime-infused cheesecake filling, topped with whipped cream and optional fresh garnishes. Perfectly portioned in jars, they are ideal for quick indulgence, make-ahead treats, and sharing at parties or picnics.
Ingredients
Scale
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or gluten-free cookies)
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or almonds for a nutty twist
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (or dairy-free condensed milk alternative)
- 1/3 cup fresh or bottled key lime juice
- 1 cup whipped cream (folded in; optionally flavored with lime zest or a splash of liqueur)
Optional Toppings & Garnishes
- Fresh lime zest
- Crushed graham crackers
- Fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries
- Fresh mint leaves or toasted coconut for unique twists
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers finely by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and rolling with a rolling pin or pulsing in a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and optional chopped nuts until combined well. Press firmly into the bottom of clean jars to form an even, sturdy crust layer.
- Mix the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, stirring until glossy and fully blended. Mix in the key lime juice until incorporated.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture until fully combined, creating a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust layer in each jar, smoothing the top with a spoon or spatula. Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, garnish each jar with fresh lime zest, crushed graham crackers, berries, or any preferred toppings for a bright and attractive finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use fresh key lime juice when possible for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Press the crust mixture firmly in jars to prevent crumbling when eating.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor melding.
- Customize garnishes with herbs like mint or sprinkle toasted coconut for added flavor and visual interest.
- Sweetened condensed milk is necessary to set the filling without baking, but dairy-free alternatives can be used for dietary needs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: no bake, key lime cheesecake, cheesecake jars, dessert jars, easy desserts, gluten free, portable dessert, citrus dessert