Description
This No-Bake Cheesecake is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy cheesecake filling in a buttery graham cracker crust, all without the need for baking. It’s a quick, no-fuss dessert that’s sure to impress at any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for added tang)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping (optional):
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
- Fruit preserves or fruit compote (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well-combined and resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan, making sure it’s compact and even. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly.
- Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
- Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using), and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This can take about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
- Add Toppings:
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with fresh fruit or fruit preserves, if desired. You can use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or any of your favorite fruits.
- If using fruit preserves, lightly warm them and drizzle over the top of the cheesecake for extra flavor.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled! Enjoy your rich and creamy No-Bake Cheesecake!
Notes
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- For a more decadent twist, you can top the cheesecake with chocolate ganache or caramel sauce instead of fruit.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavorings, such as almond extract, orange zest, or adding a swirl of chocolate or fruit puree to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American