Quick No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe | No Oven Needed!
No-bake cheesecake is a hassle-free dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, creamy filling made from cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and requires no baking, making it ideal for hot summer days or last-minute gatherings.
Why This No Bake Cheesecake Recipe Works
- 10 minutes (or less) to prep, plus chilling time
- Make ahead perfect: A huge win for holiday gatherings or entertaining.
- So, so simple! It will become your go-to treat.
With its melt-in-your-mouth sweet and velvety filling, this easy-to-make, no-bake cheesecake has become a favorite in my house and with so many readers!
Perfect for the warm months when you want to keep the oven off and still have a decadent treat. It’s also perfect all through the holidays for a delicious treat that’s easy to make and that your guests will love.
While traditional cheesecakes are incredibly yummy, they can be challenging even for the pros. In this no-bake cheesecake recipe, there is no water bath method to employ, no risk of surface cracking, and the oven, as mentioned, remains off.
What is No-Bake Cheesecake?
It’s a cheesecake made in about 10 minutes, requiring no oven, no baking, and very little time. Much like my No-Bake 3 Ingredient Chocolate Pie, this dessert is made with simple ingredients, a few turns of a spatula, and chilling time.
It’s simple, beautiful, and perfect for days when you crave homemade cheesecake but want it quick and easy!
Tips for Making a Perfect No-Bake Cheesecake
This classic No-Bake Cheesecake is incredibly easy to make. Here are some tips to make it foolproof:
Cream Cheese
- Be sure to use pure cream cheese and not cream cheese spread.
- Bring the cream cheese to room temperature (see methods below). This will help provide a smooth and velvety texture.
- Using chilled cream cheese will result in a lumpy cheesecake.
Sugar
- I prefer powdered sugar (or confectioners’ sugar) to granulated sugar because it helps give the cheesecake a smoother texture. Either works, though.
Mixing the Filling
- Fold the ingredients together by hand, or carefully use a hand mixer. The more the ingredients are worked, the softer the cheesecake texture will be.
Chilling
- When making this no-bake cheesecake, allow it to chill for at least 6 hours or overnight (chilling step) for the best crisp slices. In fact, I prefer to make it the day before I plan to serve it.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese softened to room temperature (see methods of softening cream cheese below).
- Ready-made graham cracker crust or you can make your own crust with graham cracker crumbs, a bit of sugar and melted butter.
- Sour cream
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Lemon juice
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Toppings: As you know, toppings are optional and can be adapted to changing seasons.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 445
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 46g
- Protein: 4g
Directions
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Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming an even layer.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
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Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top, then cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
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Serve:
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan.
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Top with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
This no-bake cheesecake is creamy, light, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your dessert!
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