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Fresh Mason Jar Berry Cheesecake Parfait

mason jar berry cheesecake parfait - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring layers of crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh mixed berries served in mason jars.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 120g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (about 42g)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (225g)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml), chilled
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh berries (about 225g)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand, about 3 minutes.
  2. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each mason jar. Press down firmly to create a compact layer. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes on medium speed.
  4. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese; continue beating until combined.
  5. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Add lemon juice while folding. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Spoon or pipe a generous layer of cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar. Smooth the tops.
  8. In a small bowl, toss mixed berries with honey or maple syrup if desired. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  9. Spoon the berries evenly over the cheesecake layer. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
  10. Refrigerate parfaits for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld and filling set.

Notes

Keep cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Chill bowl and whisk before whipping cream for best results. Press crust firmly into jars to prevent crumbling. Parfaits taste better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. If crust softens, freeze jars for 10 minutes before serving. For dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cream with vegan alternatives. Use gluten-free graham crackers for gluten-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake dessert, cheesecake parfait, mason jar dessert, berry parfait, easy dessert, summer dessert, quick dessert