Description
Creamy no-bake apple cheesecake jars blend classic comfort with modern dessert style. Layers of smooth cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and graham cracker crumbs create a portable sweet treat perfect for intimate gatherings or solo indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Crust and Sweeteners:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Spices and Thickeners:
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
- Craft a crumbly foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Distribute this base evenly across individual serving jars, pressing firmly to create a compact layer. Refrigerate briefly to set the crust while preparing subsequent components.
- Whip cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency. In a separate vessel, whisk heavy cream until it forms sturdy, glossy peaks. Delicately incorporate the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, maintaining a light, airy texture. Transfer this luxurious filling into the chilled jars, covering the graham cracker base completely.
- Create a luscious apple compote by sautéing diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Allow the fruit to soften and caramelize, stirring intermittently. Thicken the mixture by introducing a cornstarch slurry, which will transform the liquid into a glossy, clingy sauce. Remove from heat and permit slight cooling.
- Cascade the spiced apple topping over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution. For an indulgent finishing touch, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Serve immediately for a soft, creamy texture or chill for a firmer, more refined dessert experience.
Notes
- Customize the graham cracker crust by substituting with gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts for dietary restrictions.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to create a lighter version without compromising creamy texture.
- Enhance apple topping’s depth by experimenting with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for varied tartness and sweetness.
- Prepare components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain crisp crust and fresh flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg