Mason Jar Cherry Cheesecakes

Granny Hair, Just Don’t Care

I have entered a time in my life where I no longer worry about what other people think. I’m embracing my wrinkles, dying my hair grey and indulging in America’s favorite dessert.  Mason Jar Cherry Cheesecakes may sound redneck, but they’re so cute and delicious, no one really minds. While you are entitled to your opinion, I suggest you taste these little sweeties before you judge me.

Incidentally, I consider redneck a compliment.

If It Ain’t Broke 

Over the years, Mom’s famous cheesecake has morphed into different flavors and forms. The original is still the best, just like Mama makes. Creamy vanilla goodness sitting on top of a crisp buttery crust, crowned with bright red, glossy cherries. Packaged to go in cute mason jars, cheesecake hits the road without making a mess in the car. And, everyone gets one, which means no one has to share.

Mason Jar Cherry Cheesecakes

Fills: 8 8-oz jars
Prep: 15 mins
Bake: 20 mins @ 375*F

Ingredients
1 cup graham crackers, crushed
4 Tb (1/2 stick) butter, melted
2/3 cup sugar
4 free-range eggs @ room temp
8 oz cream cheese @ room temp
8 oz sour cream
1 tsp fresh lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla
cherry pie filling
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375ºF.

Crush graham cracker crumbs.
Add melted butter and mix until a sandy consistency forms.
Divide among the mini mason jars.
Don’t press the crust down. The weight of the toppings will
apply enough pressure.

Cream sugar, egg, cream cheese, sour cream and vanilla til smooth.
Spoon into jars and arrange them in an oven-safe dish.

Transfer to hot oven and bake 25-30 mins.
Remove from oven and cool to room temp.
Put the lids on and chill at least 1 hr.
Top with cherry filling, cover and return to the fridge until ready to serve.

Cherry on Top

If you’re new to baking, start with cheesecake. The ingredients list is short, instructions are easy to follow and success is practically guaranteed. Layer it into a bunch of mason jars and you’re gonna look like a rockstar. For extra credit, tuck a patch of fabric under the ring, tie a fuzzy straw bow around the neck and give them out as gifts. I’d keep them all to myself, but you’re a better person than me.