Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

If you’ve been craving a creamy, luscious cheesecake with minimal effort, this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new go-to dessert. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and no oven required, it’s a foolproof crowd-pleaser that delivers decadence with every silky bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No Oven Required: Beat the heat and skip the stress—a simple fridge chill is all you need for set perfection.
  • 100% Creamy & Decadent: Enjoy that classic cheesecake tang and cloudlike texture, thanks to rich cream cheese and whipped cream.
  • Super Easy for Beginners: This recipe only needs basic tools and comes together in minutes, so anyone can succeed—no baking experience needed!
  • Customizable Flavors: The versatile base pairs beautifully with any fruit, sauce, cookie, or garnish you crave, letting you create your ultimate dessert.
Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe is how each ingredient has a starring role in both flavor and texture. Gather these kitchen staples for a delectable dessert that looks impressive but couldn’t be simpler to make!

  • Graham cracker or Biscoff cookie crumbs: These deliver the classic buttery base, and Biscoff’s spiced notes add something special if you want to switch things up.
  • Unsalted butter: For binding the crust and lending rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Kosher salt: Just a pinch in the crust and filling deepens all the sweet-spicy notes.
  • Full-fat cream cheese (preferably Philadelphia): The true hero! Using brick-style, full-fat cream cheese ensures that signature creaminess.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the tangy cream cheese base and helps the filling whip up light and fluffy.
  • Fresh lemon juice: Balances the richness and adds a bright, zesty lift.
  • Vanilla extract: Fragrant vanilla rounds out all the flavors for a classic touch.
  • Heavy cream: Whipped into the filling, it brings a luxurious, cloud-like body—absolutely key for stability and that dreamy texture.
  • Fresh fruit: Any juicy, seasonal fruit works for topping—think strawberries, blueberries, or a medley for maximum color and flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Cheesecake is the ultimate blank canvas! This Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to swap in your favorite flavors, use what’s on hand, or tailor it to your dietary needs.

  • Swap the Base: Use chocolate cookie crumbs, pretzels, or even digestive biscuits for a whole new crunchy twist.
  • Add a Swirl: Fold in raspberry or strawberry sauce for a marbled look and burst of fruity flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped topping to make it vegan-friendly—just note the texture may vary slightly.
  • Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a layer of melted chocolate to the crust, or sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for extra indulgence.

How to Make Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a bowl, stir together your graham cracker or Biscoff crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan or pie plate, using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to create a sturdy, compact crust. Pop the crust into the refrigerator while you prep the filling—it sets quickly and becomes beautifully crisp.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Combine the cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and a touch of salt in the bowl of your stand mixer. Mix on low until everything comes together in a thick, smooth paste, then bump up to medium to let it become ultra creamy. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl, so every bit is blended perfectly!

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Switch your mixer to the whisk attachment. Pour in the cold heavy cream and whisk first on low to combine, then on high speed until the filling is light, airy, and holds stiff peaks—this should take 3 to 5 minutes. This step gives your Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe its signature cloud-like texture, so take your time.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Smooth the filling into your prepared crust, swirling it to the edges and creating decorative swoops with the back of a spoon. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or until the cheesecake is firm and cold—you want those beautiful, clean slices!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, top your Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe with a generous layer of fresh fruit. Let it stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing with a hot, damp knife for picture-perfect wedges. Dig in and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors and textures!

Pro Tips for Making Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese soften completely before mixing—it ensures no lumps and a silky smooth filling.
  • Super Sturdy Crust: For extra crunch and easier slicing, press your crumb mixture very firmly into the pan and refrigerate while prepping the filling.
  • Whip, Don’t Under-Whip: Keep mixing the filling until it holds true stiff peaks—undermixing can make your cheesecake slump or turn runny.
  • Sharp, Hot Knife for Serving: Run a sharp knife under hot water between slices to get those bakery-worthy, clean wedge cuts every time.

How to Serve Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

There’s nothing like a shower of colorful, jewel-toned berries atop the creamy surface. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or a simple medley all make gorgeous— and delicious—toppings. For a fancier finish, try a drizzle of homemade berry compote, lemon curd, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Side Dishes

This Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe is a showstopper on its own, but if you’re serving it as part of a celebration, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad, a platter of crisp butter cookies, or mugs of rich coffee and tea. The creamy texture is a dreamy contrast to anything crisp, tart, or lightly sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, single-serve twist, spoon the cheesecake mixture into individual jars or glasses for mini cheesecakes—perfect for parties or picnics. You can also use a tart pan with a removable bottom for a beautiful, bakery-style reveal, or pipe the filling into chocolate cookie cups for a decadent finger-food version. Personal touches always make this classic dessert unforgettable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers of your Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. The crust stays crisp and the filling remains nice and creamy—if you can resist sneaking a slice for that long!

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to a month—just wrap it well in both plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before garnishing and serving. The flavor and texture are surprisingly resilient, making it one of the most convenient make-ahead desserts around.

Reheating

No reheating needed! In fact, it’s best served straight from the fridge. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge before serving—this actually enhances the creamy texture and makes it sing with flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

    You can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the filling may not be as stable or creamy. Full-fat bricks provide the best texture, especially for this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe, but in a pinch, low-fat works—just expect a slightly softer set.

  2. How far in advance can I make the cheesecake?

    It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert! You can assemble the entire Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe up to 36 hours in advance, or even prep the crust 2 days ahead. For the freshest flavor, wait to add any fresh fruit or garnishes until right before serving.

  3. Why is my no-bake cheesecake filling runny?

    If your filling is runny, it might be under-whipped or your cream cheese wasn’t cold enough. Whip until stiff peaks form and ensure your ingredients are at the right temperature—these steps are crucial for a perfect Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe every time!

  4. Can I flavor the filling with chocolate or other extracts?

    Absolutely! Swirl in melted chocolate, espresso, flavored extracts, or even citrus zest to give your Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe a fun new twist. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as it may affect the set.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert guaranteed to impress with minimal fuss, try this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe! It’s creamy, reliable, and endlessly flexible—perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or satisfying a weeknight sweet tooth. I hope it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, too. Happy chilling and even happier eating!

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Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 99 reviews
  • Author: Wesley
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
  • Yield: 8 to 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Learn how to make a delicious and easy no-bake cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, luscious filling. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and requires minimal effort!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Crust:

  • 8 3/4 ounces graham cracker or Biscoff crumbs (about 2 cups; 250 g)
  • 2 1/2 ounces unsalted butter, melted (about 5 tablespoons; 70 g)
  • Kosher salt, to taste

For the Filling:

  • 16 ounces plain, full-fat cream cheese (2 (8-ounce) packages; 455 g)
  • 5 1/4 ounces sugar (about 3/4 cup; 150 g)
  • 3/4 ounce fresh juice from 1 lemon (about 4 1/2 teaspoons; 20 g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
  • 12 ounces heavy cream (about 1 1/2 cups; 340 g)

To Serve:

  • 12 ounces fresh fruit (about 2 cups; 340 g), washed and dried

Instructions

  1. For the Crust: Combine cookie crumbs and melted butter with a pinch of salt. Press the mixture into a tart pan, spreading evenly across the bottom and sides. Refrigerate.
  2. For the Filling: Mix cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Whip in cream until stiff peaks form. Spread filling into crust and refrigerate until firm.
  3. To Serve: Top with fresh fruit and slice into wedges. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • This recipe works well with graham crackers or Biscoff cookies for a flavorful crust.
  • For best results, use Philadelphia cream cheese.
  • The cheesecake can be partially made ahead of time and stores well in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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