No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake (Print)

Creamy lemon cheesecake layered in jars with graham crust and fresh berries, chilled for a refreshing treat.

# What You Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - Pinch of salt

→ Cheesecake Filling

05 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
06 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
08 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Topping

11 - 1/2 cup lemon curd
12 - Fresh berries for garnish
13 - Extra lemon zest for garnish, optional

# Directions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
02 - Spoon 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into the bottom of each jar. Press down firmly to create an even, compact layer.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
04 - In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
05 - Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
06 - Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling evenly over the crusts in each jar, distributing the mixture equally among all six jars.
07 - Top each jar with a generous spoonful of lemon curd, spreading it slightly over the filling surface.
08 - Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is completely set and firm.
09 - Just before serving, top each jar with fresh berries and additional lemon zest if desired for presentation and flavor.

# Helpful Hints:

01 -
  • No oven required—perfect for hot days or small kitchens
  • Individual portions make serving and portion control effortless
  • Bright, zesty lemon flavor balanced with rich, creamy cheesecake
  • Make-ahead friendly—prepare up to 24 hours in advance
  • Customizable with your favorite berries and toppings
  • Beautiful presentation that impresses guests every time
02 -
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor—bottled juice lacks the vibrant punch
  • Zest the lemon before juicing to make the process easier and cleaner
  • Don't over-mix when folding in the whipped cream, or you'll deflate the airy texture
  • For perfectly even layers, use a kitchen scale to portion the crust and filling
  • Make your own lemon curd for an extra-special touch, or use a high-quality store-bought version
  • Chill the jars uncovered for the first 30 minutes to prevent condensation, then cover tightly
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