Description
Delight in these No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla-infused cheesecake layer, and a warm cinnamon apple topping. Perfectly portioned and easy to assemble, these jars combine rich textures and cozy fall flavors with a hassle-free, no-bake method, ideal for a quick dessert that impresses.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Topping
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnishes (optional)
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your jars or serving glasses to form the crust layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl 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 until fully combined, creating a light and fluffy cheesecake filling.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced apples. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and allow the topping to cool to room temperature.
- 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 the layers if desired to fill the jars suitably.
- Garnish and Serve: Add a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle with crushed graham crackers, and drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence. Chill the assembled jars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the layers set and flavors meld.
Notes
- Use cold heavy cream to ensure it whips properly to stiff peaks.
- The apple topping can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon over the apple layer before assembling.
- This dessert is best served chilled but should be brought to room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating for optimal creaminess.
- Substitute caramel sauce with honey or maple syrup for a different sweet note.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
