Description
These No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a warm cinnamon-spiced apple compote. Perfect for individual servings, they require no baking and come together quickly, making them an ideal treat for busy days or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Compote
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of six jars or serving glasses to form the crust layer.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Cook the apple compote: Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced apples, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are softened and caramelized. Stir in the lemon juice, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Assemble the jars: Spoon a layer of the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each jar. Top with a layer of the cooled apple compote. Repeat layers if desired to fill the jars.
- Add final toppings and chill: Garnish each jar with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Refrigerate the assembled jars for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and filling to set.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Chill the heavy cream bowl and beaters beforehand for better whipping results.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or nuts.
