This classic no bake cheesecake recipe is silky, creamy and the perfect easy dessert for holidays, celebrations and warm summer days.

With its buttery graham cracker crust and smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, this dessert feels rich and indulgent while requiring very little effort. The texture is light yet luscious, and it pairs beautifully with fresh berries, chocolate sauce or fruit compote.
Because there's no baking involved, it's a fantastic make-ahead dessert for dinner parties, birthdays, family gatherings or anytime you want an impressive dessert without heating up the kitchen.
Try this Gluten Free Cheesecake and Cherry Cheesecake Smoothie, next!
Ingredients

- Graham cracker crumbs: Create a buttery, slightly sweet crust for the cheesecake.
- Melted butter: Helps bind the crust together while adding richness.
- Cream cheese: Forms the creamy, tangy base of the filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake while keeping the texture smooth.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and classic dessert flavor.
- Cold heavy cream: Whips into the filling for a light and airy texture.
- Whipped cream: Optional topping for extra richness and decoration.
- Fresh strawberries: Add freshness and color for serving.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions

- Step 1: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a mixing bowl.

- Step 2: Add the buttered crumbs to the dish.

- Step 3: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and chill while preparing the filling.

- Step 4: Add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cold heavy cream to a large bowl.

- Step 5: Beat until smooth, thick, and fluffy, allowing the filling to hold its shape.

- Step 6: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust.

- Step 7: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully set.

Substitutions
- Graham crackers: Substitute with digestive biscuits or vanilla cookies.
- Cream cheese: Mascarpone can be used for a richer flavor.
- Heavy cream: Use whipped topping for an easier shortcut version.
- Fresh strawberries: Swap with blueberries, raspberries, or cherries.

Variations
- Add lemon zest and lemon juice for a citrus cheesecake version.
- Swirl caramel or chocolate sauce into the filling before chilling.
- Make mini cheesecakes in jars or muffin tins for individual servings.
- Top with crushed cookies, berry compote or toasted coconut.
Equipment
A springform pan works best for easy removal and clean slices. You'll also need mixing bowls, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer for whipping the filling, and a spatula for smoothing the cheesecake evenly into the pan.
Storage
This cheesecake is ideal for making ahead and can be prepared the day before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and creamy.
It's best served chilled straight from the fridge. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy once thawed.
Top tip
For the smoothest cheesecake filling, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese can leave lumps in the filling and prevent the cheesecake from becoming silky and airy.
FAQ
No bake cheesecake usually needs more chilling time to fully firm up. Make sure it chills for at least 4 hours, although overnight chilling will give the best texture and cleanest slices.
Related
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No Bake Cheesecake
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs about 200 g crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup 100 g melted butter
- 14 oz 400 g cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup powdered sugar about 90 g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cold heavy cream 240 ml
- Optional topping: whipped cream and fresh strawberries
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Chill while preparing filling.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cold heavy cream.
- Beat together until smooth, thick, and creamy. Continue mixing until the filling becomes light and holds its shape.
- Spread filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, pipe whipped cream around the edges and top with fresh strawberries if desired.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
All nutritional information provided is an estimate. For specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend consulting a nutrition calculator or a qualified expert.






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