No-Bake Cheesecake

This No-Bake Cheesecake is an incredibly easy, creamy, and decadent dessert that requires no oven time! With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy filling made with cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lemon, this cheesecake is the perfect treat for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and delightfully refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This No-Bake Cheesecake offers all the deliciousness of a traditional cheesecake without the need for baking. The graham cracker crust is perfectly sweet and buttery, while the filling is rich and creamy with a refreshing hint of lemon. It’s ideal for hot summer days when you don’t want to heat up the oven, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family with its light texture and tangy flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• 12 tablespoons butter (melted)

• 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (room temperature)

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract

• 4 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.

2. Press the mixture into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.

3. Transfer to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. While the crust chills, place the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the pitcher of a blender.

2. Puree the ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

1. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the chilled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a rubber spatula.

2. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until firm.

Serve:

1. Once firm, remove the sides of the springform pan and serve the cheesecake.

2. Optionally, top with fresh berries for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling time)

Variations

• Fruit Toppings: Add fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries on top for a burst of color and flavor.

• Chocolate Cheesecake: Drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle cocoa powder on top of the cheesecake for a decadent twist.

• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor or use lime zest and lime juice for a tropical variation.

• No-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk or substitute the sugar in the crust with a sugar substitute for a low-sugar option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Reheating: This cheesecake is best served cold, so no reheating is needed. Simply slice and enjoy straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I use a regular pie dish instead of a springform pan?

Yes, you can use a regular pie dish or tart pan, but the presentation will be different. A springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake and serve it neatly.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2-3 days ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different than when using full-fat cream cheese.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed cookies (like Oreos) or even a nut-based crust if you prefer.

How do I know when the cheesecake is ready?

The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when sliced. If it’s still too soft, let it chill for a bit longer.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Cheesecake is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. It’s a creamy, tangy dessert with a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust, making it an easy, no-fuss treat that everyone will love. With endless topping possibilities, this cheesecake is versatile enough to suit any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a special gathering, or just a sweet craving!

Print