Wee no-bake cheesecakes in jars are perfect for making ahead. Set them out for people to grab and eat where they sit, no need for slicing and serving. Top these no-bake cheesecakes with fruit preserves, chocolate sauce, dulce de leche – even that bag of berries in the freezer, simmered with sugar. (You don’t have to worry about it being too runny because it’s served in a jar.)
Ingredients:
Crust
1/2 cup (125 ml) graham crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers
2 tbsp (30 ml) butter, melted
Filling
1 8-oz. (250 ml) pkg. cream cheese
1/4 cup (60 ml) icing sugar, or to taste
1/2–3/4 cup (125–185 ml) whipping cream
1/2 tsp (2 ml) vanilla
Topping
1/2–1 cup (125-250 ml) sweetened berries preserves, or caramel or chocolate sauce
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, stir together the graham crumbs and butter. Divide among six 125-ml ring-top jars, pressing lightly into the bottom.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until well blended and no lumps remain; add the whipping cream and vanilla and beat until it has the consistency of soft frosting.
3. Divide the mixture between the jars, smoothing the top. Put the lids on and refrigerate until serving time. Invite guests to add their favourite topping.
Serves 6; recipe can be easily doubled or tripled.
Originally published in ParentsCanada magazine, December 2012.