Name: Easy No Bake Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups Graham cracker crumbs; 2 tablespoons Sugar; 6 tablespoons Butter, melted; 1 packet Gelatin, about 2 ¼ tsp; ¼ cup Boiling water; 24 ounces Cream cheese, softened to room temp; 1¾ cups Powdered sugar, sifted; 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons Lemon juice, freshly squeezed; ½ cup Plain Greek yogurt, or Sour cream; 1½ cups Frozen whipped topping, thawed; 16 ounces Fresh strawberries; ⅓ cup Sugar; Whipped cream for serving, optional Whipped cream

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The Easy No Bake Cheesecake is one of those recipes that brings back fond memories for me. I remember the first time I made it for my family during a hot summer day. I wanted something refreshing, something that didn’t require turning on the oven, and boy did this hit the mark! The creamy texture of the filling combined with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of fresh strawberries makes it an unforgettable dessert. As soon as it was served, the compliments started pouring in, and I felt so proud! This cheesecake is not only simple to make, but it also holds a special place in my heart as a go-to recipe for gatherings, celebrations, or just a treat for myself. I love how it can be prepared in advance, allowing for more time to enjoy with loved ones without the stress of last-minute baking.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
springform pan, lemon squeezer, strawberry huller

In addition, the Easy No Bake Cheesecake is extremely versatile. You can switch up the toppings, use different fruits, or even experiment with flavors in the filling. The possibilities are endless! Whether it’s a birthday party, a summer BBQ, or a cozy family dinner, this cheesecake can adapt to any occasion, making it a beloved dessert for many. I’m excited to share this recipe with you so that you can experience the joy of making this delightful cheesecake.

Why This Easy No Bake Cheesecake Hits Different

Refreshing and Creamy

The Easy No Bake Cheesecake is incredibly light and refreshing, thanks to the use of cream cheese and Greek yogurt. This combination not only creates a rich flavor but also a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Simple to Prepare

One of the best things about this cheesecake is how simple it is to prepare. With no baking required, you can whip it up in under an hour, and then let it chill while you take care of other things. This makes it perfect for those busy days when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Make-Ahead Delight

This dessert is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Since it needs to chill for at least six hours, you can make it the day before your event, freeing up your schedule for other preparations. The anticipation of enjoying this cheesecake makes it even more special!

Customizable Toppings

While the basic cheesecake is delicious on its own, you can easily elevate it with various toppings. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or even a drizzle of chocolate can take this dessert to the next level. I love experimenting with flavors and colors to create a stunning presentation.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this cheesecake fits every occasion. It’s loved by kids and adults alike, making it a universal favorite. It’s hard not to smile when you see someone enjoying a slice!

Ingredients for Easy No Bake Cheesecake

When it comes to the ingredients for this Easy No Bake Cheesecake, each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect dessert. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. The key players include cream cheese for creaminess, powdered sugar for sweetness, and whipped topping for a light finish. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this cheesecake unforgettable.

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs form the base of your cheesecake, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
2 tablespoons sugar: A touch of sweetness to enhance the flavor of the crust.
6 tablespoons butter, melted: This binds the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a sturdy crust.
1 packet gelatin, about 2 ¼ tsp: This helps the cheesecake set without baking.
¼ cup boiling water: Used to dissolve the gelatin before adding it to the filling.
24 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temp: The star of our filling, giving it that rich and creamy texture.
1¾ cups powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the filling and adds smoothness.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed: Brightens the flavor of the cheesecake.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt, or sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
1½ cups frozen whipped topping, thawed: Lightens the filling, making it airy.
16 ounces fresh strawberries: For topping, adding freshness and color.
⅓ cup sugar: To toss with the strawberries for a sweet finish.
whipped cream for serving, optional: A dollop on top for extra indulgence.

Directions for Easy No Bake Cheesecake

Making the Easy No Bake Cheesecake is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious dessert waiting for you in no time!

Start by lightly greasing a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray. This will help the cheesecake release easily later on.
In a medium bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating a slight lip up the sides. This will form your crust.
Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the cream cheese layer. This helps it set up quicker.
In a small bowl, dissolve 1 packet of gelatin in ¼ cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved and set aside.
Using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, whip cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s very soft and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth filling.
Scrape the sides of the bowl down, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, sour cream, and the dissolved gelatin mixture. Beat until fully combined.
Turn off the mixer and gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the mixture too much.
Once combined, take the springform pan out of the freezer and spoon the cheesecake layer over the crust. Use a flat-edge knife or spatula to smooth the top.
Set the cheesecake in the fridge to chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight. You can speed this up by placing it in the freezer for a couple of hours.
A few hours before serving, prepare the sugared strawberries. Hull the strawberries and cut them into quarters or eighths. Toss them with sugar and place them in the fridge to let the juices develop.
When ready to serve, take the cheesecake out of the fridge and trace the edges of the springform pan with a thin sharp knife. Gently unclamp the pan and cut it into pieces.
Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and the sugared strawberries. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling is crucial: Ensure you chill the cheesecake for the full time to achieve the perfect texture.
Don’t skip the gelatin: It’s important for setting the cheesecake without baking.
Fresh fruit is best: Always use fresh strawberries for the topping to ensure the best flavor.
Serving tips: Use a sharp knife to cut the cheesecake for clean slices.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts of the Easy No Bake Cheesecake is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste and preferences. Whether you’re looking to play with flavors or change the presentation, here are some ideas:

Flavored Cream Cheese: Try using flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or lemon, for a different taste.
Chocolate Crust: Swap out the graham cracker crumbs for chocolate cookies to create a chocolate crust.
Layer It Up: Create layers by adding different flavored fillings, like peanut butter or caramel, in between the cheesecake layers.
Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits for topping, like blueberries or raspberries.
Add Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top for a crunchy texture.
Different Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
Serve with Sauces: Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent touch.

What Complements This Easy No Bake Cheesecake

Serving the Easy No Bake Cheesecake is all about enhancing the experience. Here are some great ideas to pair with it:

Fruits: Fresh fruits like berries, peaches, or even a fruit compote add a refreshing taste.
Whipped Cream: Can’t go wrong with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
Coffee: A cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Tea: Herbal teas, especially chamomile or mint, make for a soothing contrast.
Seasonal Occasions: This cheesecake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or holiday celebrations.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to five to seven days.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe. It will still give you a delicious cheesecake, although the texture might be a bit lighter. Just remember that the overall flavor may be slightly less rich, but it can be a healthier option if that’s what you’re looking for!

The Easy No Bake Cheesecake should ideally chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly and ensures a firmer texture. If you’re short on time, you can place it in the freezer for a couple of hours, but make sure to check it regularly to avoid freezing it solid.

You can use a variety of fruits as toppings for your cheesecake! Fresh strawberries are a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced kiwi. The key is to use fruits that are in season for the best flavor!

To make a vegan version of the Easy No Bake Cheesecake, you can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, use cashew cream or coconut cream instead of sour cream, and ensure your whipped topping is dairy-free. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary from the traditional version.

Conclusion

The Easy No Bake Cheesecake is truly a delightful dessert that combines simplicity and flavor, making it a real crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, I encourage you to try making this cheesecake. You won’t be disappointed, and it might just become your new favorite recipe!