Description
This easy no-bake cheesecake is a creamy and delightful dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling. Perfect for beginners, it requires no oven time and is ready after chilling for a few hours. Top it with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or caramel for a customizable treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
Toppings
- Fresh fruit (berries, kiwi, etc.)
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel drizzle
- Pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, spreading it into an even layer to form the base of the cheesecake.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to allow it to set slightly.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using) until fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form for a light, airy texture.
- Combine Filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
- Chill to Set: Cover and refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up fully.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, top with your choice of fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or pie filling. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight to ensure it sets properly and slices cleanly.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Optional lemon juice adds a subtle tang balancing the sweetness.
- Fresh fruit toppings add a refreshing contrast and visual appeal.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
