If you're craving a tangy, creamy dessert that’s quick to make and doesn’t require turning on the oven, these No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are the perfect solution! They combine the tartness of key limes with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. Served in individual jars, these mini cheesecakes are not only adorable but also convenient for parties, picnics, or a personal indulgence. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a simple yet impressive dessert that’s sure to become a favorite!
What Are No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars?
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are individual-sized desserts featuring a rich, creamy key lime cheesecake filling layered on top of a buttery graham cracker crust, all served in jars for easy portioning and portability. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, these require no baking, making them a perfect quick dessert option. The bright, citrusy flavor of key lime pairs beautifully with the smooth texture of the cheesecake, and the graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch. These jars are ideal for any occasion, from summer picnics to after-dinner treats.
Ingredients List for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
Here’s everything you’ll need to make No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
For the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (1 package), softened
- Sweetened condensed milk: ½ cup
- Key lime juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed (about 4-5 key limes)
- Key lime zest: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Heavy cream: ½ cup, cold (for whipping)
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream: Homemade or store-bought
- Key lime slices: Thinly sliced, for decoration
- Graham cracker crumbs: For sprinkling on top
Ingredients List for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars (For Clarity)
- Graham Cracker Crust: A simple combination of graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the base.
- Cream Cheese: The base for the creamy cheesecake filling.
- Key Lime Juice and Zest: The star ingredients, adding tart, citrusy brightness.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and richness to the filling.
- Heavy Cream: Lightens the cheesecake mixture, creating a fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor.
- Garnishes: Optional whipped cream, lime slices, or extra graham cracker crumbs for a decorative finish.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream or a plant-based cream cheese.
- Lemon Cheesecake: Swap key limes for lemons to create a lemon cheesecake version.
- Crust Variations: Try using crushed vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
- Coconut Twist: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust or sprinkle it on top for a tropical twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Divide the mixture evenly among 4-6 small jars or glasses (depending on the size), pressing it firmly into the bottom to form the crust. Set aside.
2. Whip the Heavy Cream:
In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy cream with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
4. Fold in Whipped Cream:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime cheesecake mixture, using a spatula to keep the filling light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Jars:
Spoon or pipe the key lime cheesecake mixture on top of the graham cracker crust in each jar. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or a spatula.
6. Chill the Cheesecake Jars:
Cover the jars with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the cheesecake filling is set.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, top each jar with a dollop of whipped cream, a thin slice of key lime, and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs if desired. Serve chilled.
How to Make No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick overview of the key steps for making these no-bake cheesecake jars:
- Step 1: Make the graham cracker crust and press it into jars.
- Step 2: Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and set aside.
- Step 3: Beat cream cheese with condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest until smooth.
- Step 4: Fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture.
- Step 5: Assemble the jars by layering the cheesecake filling on top of the crust.
- Step 6: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Step 7: Garnish with whipped cream, lime slices, and graham cracker crumbs before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars, there are a few potential pitfalls to avoid:
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy filling.
- Overmixing the Whipped Cream: When folding the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, be gentle to avoid deflating it, which can result in a dense filling.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process—refrigerating for at least 2 hours helps the filling set and develop its full flavor.
- Too Much Lime Juice: Avoid adding too much key lime juice, as it can make the filling too runny. Stick to the measurements for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are perfect for casual or fancy occasions. Here are some ideas for serving and presentation:
- Individual Portions: Serve the cheesecakes in mason jars, small glasses, or any clear container to show off the beautiful layers.
- Summer Picnic: These jars are great for picnics or outdoor parties—just screw on the lids for easy transport.
- Top with Fresh Fruit: Add fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Party Presentation: Arrange the jars on a tray with a bowl of whipped cream and extra lime slices on the side for guests to add their own garnishes.
How to Serve No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
Here are some creative ways to serve these no-bake cheesecake jars:
- In Mason Jars: Use small mason jars for a rustic, charming presentation. Perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
- Shot Glasses: For mini dessert portions, serve the cheesecake in shot glasses for a fun, bite-sized treat.
- Layered Dessert: For a fancier look, alternate layers of graham cracker crumbs and key lime filling for a parfait-style presentation.
Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
To make your No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars look even more appealing, try these presentation ideas:
- Lime Zest Garnish: Sprinkle fresh lime zest over the top of each jar for a vibrant, citrusy finish.
- Crumbled Graham Crackers: Add a light sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on top of the whipped cream for extra texture.
- Mini Lime Wedges: Garnish each jar with a small wedge of key lime or a candied lime slice for a decorative touch.
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: These cheesecake jars can be made a day ahead of time. Just add the whipped cream and garnish right before serving.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a more tart cheesecake, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
- Key Lime Substitute: If key limes aren’t available, regular lime juice will work as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly less intense.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
A: Yes! Regular lime juice can be used in place of key lime juice. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I make these cheesecake jars in advance?
A: Absolutely! These jars can be made up to 1-2 days ahead. Just wait to add the whipped cream and garnishes until right before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the cheesecake jars?
A: While the cheesecake filling freezes well, the texture of the crust may become soggy. If you freeze them, thaw them in the fridge before serving and add fresh garnishes.
Q: How long can these cheesecakes be stored in the refrigerator?
A: These cheesecake jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Conclusion
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are a refreshing, creamy, and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for summer or any time of year. With their tangy key lime flavor and rich cheesecake filling, layered over a buttery graham cracker crust, these individual-sized treats are sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a citrus craving, these cheesecake jars are a foolproof dessert that’s bound to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors in every bite!
PrintNo-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars Recipe
These No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are a quick and easy dessert, combining the tangy flavor of key lime with a creamy cheesecake filling. Served in individual jars with a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with whipped cream, this no-bake treat is perfect for summer parties or any time you crave a refreshing dessert!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American, Tropical-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Butter (melted)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Key lime juice
- Lime zest
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Key lime slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottoms of small jars or dessert cups.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in the jars.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with lime slices before serving.
Notes
- Substitute regular limes if key limes aren’t available.
- Adjust the lime juice to taste for a more or less tangy flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 200mg
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