Looking for a fun and indulgent dessert that combines the best of two worlds? These Gajar Halwa Cheesecake Jars are the perfect fusion of the moist, rich carrot halwa and the creamy, tangy cheesecake, served in individual portions! Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress.
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Since so many of you have asked for easy-to-make desserts for festive celebrations, I'm excited to share this recipe just in time for Diwali! It's my go-to dessert when hosting Indian Parties and is perfect for potlucks, as it looks stunning and the individual serving cups are both convenient and adorable. Enjoy the festive flavors in every bite!
These dessert jars are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors. Each bite delivers a delicious balance of textures-from the crunchy graham cracker crust to the velvety cheesecake filling, all the way to the moist layers of carrot halwa.
The individual servings make them ideal for entertaining, and they're perfect for make-ahead desserts that you can simply pull out of the fridge and serve. Plus, they're easy to make with my make-ahead homemade Gajar ka Halwa, or you can use a good-quality store-bought version for convenience!
If you're a fan of easy and fun fusion Indian desserts, don't miss my Gujiya Bites and Rice Kheer with Berry Compote-they're just as delicious and perfect for your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
Note: A recipe card with exact ingredient measurements and instructions is available at the end of this post. The ingredient photo and details included here are just to give you a clear visual reference of what you'll need for the recipe, ensuring you know exactly what to gather before you start.
- Gajar Halwa: Whether homemade or store-bought, this rich and flavorful carrot halwa is the base of this easy fusion dessert, full of the goodness of carrots and milk.
- Graham Crackers & Butter: Crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter form a delicious, buttery crumb layer that adds the perfect crunch.
- Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy, it creates a luscious cheesecake layer that pairs beautifully with the sweet Gajar halwa.
- Heavy Cream: Whipped to light and fluffy perfection, it adds an airy texture to the cheesecake layer.
- Cardamom: A pinch of cardamom gives the dessert an aromatic, warm flavor to the cream cheese filling
- Pistachios: Chopped pistachios bring a delightful crunch and vibrant green color, perfect for garnishing and adding texture.
How to Make Carrot Halwa Cheesecake Jars
- Place the graham crackers in a ziplock bag and crush them into fine crumbs using the back of a wooden spatula.
- Add the melted butter to the crumbs and mix well until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese. Add powdered sugar and cardamom powder.
- Add chilled heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it's smooth and creamy.
- Divide the crumb mixture evenly between 6 (5 oz) jars, pressing down with the back of a spoon to form the base.
- Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each jar.
- Next, add a generous layer of Gajar Halwa on top of the cheesecake.
- Add another layer of the cheesecake mixture followed by a layer of Gajar Halwa. Garnish with sliced pistachios and rose petals
Serving
- Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Storing
- Refrigeration: Store the jars in the refrigerator. They can typically last for about 3-5 days when properly sealed. Make sure the jars are tightly covered to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge.
- Airtight Containers: If you're not using jars, transfer the cheesecake mixture and Gajar Halwa into airtight containers. This will help maintain freshness.
- Garnishes: If you've added garnishes like pistachios or dried rose petals, it's best to store them separately. Add them just before serving to keep them crunchy and vibrant.
More Festive Indian Desserts You'll Love
Recipe
Gajar Halwa Cheesecake Jars {Easy Indian Fusion Dessert}
Equipment
Recipe Video
Ingredients
- 2 cups gajar halwa homemade or store-bought
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream chilled
For the Crust:
- 5 graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish
- Thinly sliced pistachios
- Dried rose petals optional
Instructions
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and chilled heavy cream. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it's smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Crust:
- Place the graham crackers in a ziplock bag and crush them into fine crumbs using the back of a wooden spatula or a rolling pin.
- Add the melted butter to the crumbs and mix well until combined.
- Divide the crumb mixture evenly between 6 (5 oz) jars, pressing down with the back of a spoon to form the base.
Assemble the Jars:
- Spoon or pipe a layer of cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each jar.
- Next, add a generous layer of Gajar Halwa on top of the cheesecake.
- Add another layer of the cheesecake mixture followed by a layer of Gajar Halwa.
Garnish:
- Garnish with thinly sliced pistachios and a sprinkle of dried rose petals.
Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
-
- Prepare the Gajar Halwa: You can make the Gajar Halwa in advance, as it stores well in the refrigerator for about a week. Just reheat it slightly before layering it in the jars.
- Cheesecake Layer: The cheesecake filling can also be prepared a day ahead. Store it in the fridge, covered, until you're ready to assemble the jars.
- Assembling the Jars: For the best texture, assemble the jars a few hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
- Chilling Time: Make sure to allow enough chilling time after assembling, ideally at least 2 hours.
Ekta Sachdev says
Can we like assemble this a day before? Will it still hold the flavors and layers
Archana Mundhe says
Yes! It works well.
Deepa says
Where did you buy these disposable 5oz cups from? I cannot find the round ones on Amazon.
Archana Mundhe says
I bought them on amazon - https://amzn.to/4nvOp9x
Sapana Meghpara says
Can we use store bought Philadelphia cheesecake filling ?
Sapana Meghpara says
Thanks for the recepi.Can we use store bought Philadelphia cheesecake ?
Archana Mundhe says
Hi Sapana, yes you can def use the store bought cheesecake and layer it in between the gajar halwa! Its a great shortcut.