Description
This Simple No-Bake Cheesecake recipe is a creamy, tangy dessert that’s easy to prepare without needing an oven. Using a buttery graham cracker crust and a light, whipped cream cheese filling with a hint of fresh lemon, it’s perfect for a quick yet indulgent treat that sets beautifully in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Crushed Graham Crackers
- 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter, melted
- 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar
Filling Ingredients
- 16 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream, whipped
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 0.25 cups of granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a compact base. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Beat cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add sweeteners and flavor: Add 0.5 cups of granulated sugar, sour cream, and fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, providing a light and airy texture.
- Fold whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the airy texture without deflating the whipped cream.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Chill the cheesecake: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, allowing it to set completely.
- Remove from pan: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan before serving, ensuring the crust and filling stay intact.
- Serve: Garnish as desired, slice into portions, and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is properly softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when serving.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling yields the best texture.
- Optional garnishes include fresh berries, fruit compote, or whipped cream.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and neat presentation.
