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Perfect Mini Graduation Cheesecakes in Jars

mini graduation cheesecakes in jars - featured image

These mini cheesecakes in jars are easy to prep, perfect for celebrations, and feature a creamy cheesecake filling with a buttery graham cracker crust topped with fresh berries and optional apricot glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries)
  • 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until evenly moistened and the crumbs hold together when pressed.
  3. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each jar. Press down firmly to create an even, compact layer.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy.
  5. Mix in vanilla extract, then beat in eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
  6. Fold in sour cream gently until just combined.
  7. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar, filling about 3/4 full.
  8. Place jars in a baking pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides of the jars to create a water bath.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
  10. Remove jars from water bath, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  11. Before serving, gently warm apricot jam and brush over fresh berries, then spoon berries onto each cheesecake jar.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps. Baking in a water bath prevents cracks and keeps texture silky. Do not overbake; cheesecake should have a slight wobble in the center when done. Press crust firmly to avoid crumbling. Apricot glaze on berries is optional but adds a glossy finish.

Nutrition

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