Description
This classic No-Bake Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert with a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather or when you want a quick and easy treat, it requires no oven time and can be made ahead for a hassle-free indulgence. Enjoy it topped with fresh berries, fruit compote, or your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For topping (optional):
- Fresh berries
- Fruit compote
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir the ingredients until the mixture has a wet sand-like texture. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish, then refrigerate while you make the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. This will add lightness to the filling.
- Combine filling and cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy, maintaining the airiness of the whipped cream.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Chill to set: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight so it can fully set and firm up.
- Add toppings and serve: Before serving, top with fresh fruit, fruit compote, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream as desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For added flavor variations, fold in lemon zest, crushed Oreos, or fruit puree into the filling before folding in whipped cream.
- This cheesecake is best prepared a day ahead to allow proper setting time.
