No-bake Key Lime Jars

This bright and zesty no-bake Key Lime Cheesecake served in individual jars has become my summertime signature dessert. The perfect balance of tart lime and sweet creamy filling sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating an irresistible treat that requires zero oven time.

I first created these jars for a backyard barbecue when temperatures soared into the 90s and turning on the oven seemed criminal. The guests couldn't stop raving about them, and now they're requested at every gathering from May through September.

Ingredients

• Graham crackers: freshly crushed graham crackers provide the perfect textural base with their subtle honey notes
• Butter: use good quality unsalted butter for the cleanest flavor in your crust
• Cream cheese: Philadelphia brand works beautifully here make sure it's fully softened to room temperature
• Powdered sugar: sifted powdered sugar ensures a silky smooth filling without any grittiness
• Key lime juice: fresh is worth the extra squeezing effort but bottled Nellie & Joe's works in a pinch
• Vanilla extract: use pure vanilla not imitation for the best complementary flavor
• Whipped topping: for convenience or substitute with fresh whipped cream for more decadent results
• Lime slices and zest: the finishing touch that signals what flavor awaits

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the crust base:

Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Use a measuring cup to firmly press about 2 tablespoons into each jar creating an even compact layer.

Prepare the filling:

Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 full minutes until completely smooth and free of lumps. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently during this process to ensure no pockets of unmixed cream cheese remain.

Add the flavoring elements:

Gradually incorporate powdered sugar a quarter cup at a time while mixer is running on low speed. Once sugar is incorporated pour in key lime juice and vanilla extract continuing to mix until the filling becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Lighten the mixture:

Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula with a down across up and over motion. This maintains the air in the mixture resulting in a light mousse like texture. Continue folding just until no white streaks remain.

Fill the jars:

Transfer the cheesecake mixture to a piping bag for the cleanest application or carefully spoon into each jar leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Tap jars gently on the counter to settle the filling and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.

Chill thoroughly:

Refrigerate the prepared jars for a minimum of 2 hours though overnight is ideal allowing the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set properly.

Save

The key to this recipe truly is using authentic key lime juice whenever possible. These small citrus fruits pack a more intense aromatic punch than regular limes. I learned this from my grandmother who spent winters in Florida and would bring back bottles of key lime juice as precious souvenirs for our family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These cheesecake jars are perfect for preparation up to two days before serving. Cover each jar tightly with its lid or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after the first 24 hours as they have more time to meld together. For longer storage these jars can be frozen for up to one month just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Ingredient Swaps

If key limes are unavailable regular Persian limes make a fine substitute though you may need slightly less juice as they can be more tart. For a dairy free version substitute the cream cheese with dairy free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks instead of the whipped topping. The graham cracker crust can be swapped for crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these jars straight from the refrigerator with small spoons. For an elevated presentation top each jar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream a sprinkle of lime zest and a thin slice of lime just before serving. These pair beautifully with coffee or a dessert wine like Moscato. For a fun summer gathering set up a cheesecake jar bar with various toppings like crushed pistachios white chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Yes, you can substitute regular lime juice if key limes aren't available. However, key limes provide a more distinctive, aromatic flavor that's slightly more tart. If using regular limes, consider adding a bit more zest to compensate for the flavor difference.

→ How far in advance can I make these cheesecake jars?

These jars can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and meld together beautifully with time, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert option.

→ Can I freeze these key lime cheesecake jars?

Yes, these can be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze without the garnishes and cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving and add fresh garnishes just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?

Good alternatives include digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, or shortbread cookies. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but work well with the key lime filling. Just crush them finely and combine with melted butter as directed.

→ What type of jars work best for this dessert?

Mason jars or small glass dessert jars (4-6 oz) work perfectly. Clear containers showcase the beautiful layers. If you don't have jars, small glasses, ramekins, or even a single serving dish for a family-style presentation will work too.

→ How can I make these cheesecake jars lighter or lower in calories?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese, light whipped topping, and reduce the sugar slightly. You could also make the graham cracker layer thinner to reduce calories from the butter. These substitutions will affect the richness and texture somewhat but still yield a delicious dessert.