Looking for a refreshing, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm weather and easy to serve? These No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are the perfect solution! Packed with the tangy flavor of key lime juice and the creamy richness of cheesecake, this dessert is incredibly easy to make and comes in cute, individual servings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick treat, these mini cheesecakes will hit the spot with their balance of tart, sweet, and creamy goodness.
Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started on these delicious No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars!
What Are No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars?
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are a simple, individual-sized dessert that combines the zesty flavor of key lime with the smooth texture of no-bake cheesecake. Unlike traditional cheesecake, this version requires no oven time, making it a quick and easy dessert. The cheesecake mixture is layered over a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with whipped cream, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Served in cute mason jars or any small containers, these are perfect for parties, picnics, or whenever you need a cool and refreshing treat.
Ingredients List for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
This recipe requires simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup (about 8-10 graham crackers, crushed)
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons, granulated or brown sugar
For the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream Cheese: 2 (8-ounce) blocks, softened
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 (14-ounce) can
- Key Lime Juice: ½ cup (freshly squeezed if possible, or bottled)
- Lime Zest: Zest of 2 key limes or 1 regular lime
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional):
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, cold
- Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon
For Garnish:
- Lime slices, zest, or graham cracker crumbs for decoration.
Substitutions and Variations
This No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars recipe is flexible, so feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Crust Variations: You can replace the graham crackers with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or ginger snaps for a unique twist on the crust.
- Make it More Tart: If you love extra tartness, add more lime zest or increase the amount of lime juice slightly.
- Coconut Key Lime Cheesecake: Stir in ¼ cup of shredded coconut to the crust mixture or sprinkle it on top of the whipped cream for a tropical twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars. No baking required—just chill, set, and enjoy!
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each jar or serving dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently press the crumbs down into an even layer. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to mix on low speed until well combined and smooth.
- Add the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake Jars:
- Spoon or pipe the key lime cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar, filling about ¾ full.
- Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth the tops of the cheesecakes.
- Cover the jars with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set and chill.
4. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional):
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
- Spoon or pipe the whipped cream over the top of each jar of cheesecake.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish each jar with a slice of lime, extra lime zest, or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for a pretty finish.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing, tangy No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars!
How to Cook No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick guide for making these delicious mini cheesecakes:
- Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of jars.
- Prepare the filling: Beat cream cheese, then mix in condensed milk, key lime juice, zest, and vanilla.
- Assemble the jars: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture on top of the crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Make whipped cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form (optional).
- Garnish and serve: Add whipped cream, lime zest, or lime slices for a decorative touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure perfect No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
- Not Softening the Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese isn’t fully softened, it won’t blend smoothly, and you’ll end up with lumps in your cheesecake mixture. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Overmixing the Whipped Cream: If you’re making whipped cream, be careful not to overbeat it. Once you see stiff peaks, stop mixing to avoid turning it into butter.
- Not Chilling Long Enough: Be patient and give the cheesecakes enough time to chill and set. At least 2 hours in the fridge is recommended, but overnight is even better.
Serving and Presentation Tips
These No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are as fun to serve as they are to eat! Here are some ideas to make your presentation extra special:
1. How to Serve No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
- Serve the jars directly from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
- Use small mason jars, glass cups, or even small dessert bowls for individual servings.
- These jars are perfect for picnics or outdoor events—just cover them with lids and transport them easily.
2. Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
- Garnish each jar with a thin slice of lime on the side of the jar or some extra lime zest on top for a burst of color.
- For a tropical touch, add toasted coconut flakes or a small mint leaf as garnish.
- Layer the cheesecake mixture and crust alternately in the jar for a parfait-style presentation.
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Key Limes: Freshly squeezed key lime juice is best for this recipe, but if you can’t find key limes, regular limes or bottled key lime juice can work.
- Make Ahead: These cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store the jars covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re adding whipped cream, do so just before serving for the freshest result.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
- Yes! If you don’t have key limes, you can substitute regular lime juice. The flavor will be slightly less tart, but still delicious.
- How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and the rest of the recipe remains gluten-free.
- Can I freeze these cheesecake jars?
- Yes, you can freeze them without the whipped cream topping. Thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving and add the whipped cream just before serving.
- What size jars should I use?
- Small 4-ounce or 6-ounce mason jars work perfectly for this recipe, but any small container or dessert cup will work. Adjust the quantities of the crust and filling as needed for different jar sizes.
- Can I double this recipe?
- Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on how many servings you need. Just make sure to proportion the ingredients accordingly.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars are the perfect dessert for those who love the bright, zesty flavor of key lime paired with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Whether you’re making them for a summer barbecue, a dinner party, or just because you need a treat, these easy-to-make cheesecakes will be a hit. With their smooth texture, tangy flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, they’re sure to please any crowd. Ready to indulge in this citrusy dessert? Grab your ingredients and start making these delicious jars of cheesecake heaven today!
PrintNo-bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars Recipe
This No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars recipe offers a refreshing and tangy dessert, perfect for warm days. Made with a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and zesty key lime flavor, these jars are easy to assemble and great for parties. They deliver all the flavor of a classic key lime pie in a convenient, no-bake treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 jars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices or zest, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each jar or glass. Set aside.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until creamy. Stir in key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Assemble the jars: Spoon the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar. Smooth the tops with a spoon.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the cheesecake.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and garnish with lime slices or additional zest, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute regular lime juice if key limes aren’t available.
- Make ahead for convenience; these jars keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Use mason jars, small glasses, or dessert cups for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
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