Description
A delightful and easy no-bake dessert featuring creamy cheesecake layered with a buttery graham cracker crust and warm cinnamon-spiced apples, perfectly assembled in individual jars for a charming presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Topping
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well and press the mixture firmly into the bottoms of jars or serving glasses to form the crust layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese until fully combined and fluffy.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and diced apples. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and caramelized. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Allow the mixture to cool completely before assembling.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon a layer of the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each jar. Top with the cooled apple compote. If desired, repeat the layering for more height and visual appeal.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each jar with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Chill the assembled jars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set the layers and enhance flavors.
Notes
- This recipe can be made a day ahead for convenience; just keep covered and refrigerated.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- For an extra crunch, add chopped nuts on top along with the crushed graham crackers.
- Adjust the sugar in the apple topping depending on the sweetness of your apples.
- Individual jars make this dessert perfect for parties or easy portion control.
