No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Name: No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped for topping

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I adore making this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake, especially during the warmer months when fresh strawberries are abundant. It's light and refreshing, with a creamy texture that's hard to resist. The best part is that it requires no baking, making it an easy treat to whip up for family gatherings or dinner parties. I love how the bright strawberry flavor shines through, bringing a burst of freshness to each bite. This dessert is always a crowd-pleaser, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:09:27.342Z

When I first attempted this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key to a smooth filling is ensuring the cream cheese is well softened before mixing. This technique helps avoid lumps and gives the cheesecake its creamy texture. I also discovered that using fresh strawberries instead of preserves elevates the flavor significantly, resulting in a more vibrant and natural taste.

One tip I learned is to let the cheesecake chill for at least four hours before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake to set perfectly. Trust me, your patience will be rewarded with a delightful dessert that impresses everyone around the table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich strawberry flavor that bursts in every bite
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
No baking means it’s perfect for warm days
Simple ingredients come together effortlessly

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust of this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. When mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, ensure that the mixture resembles wet sand; this indicates it will hold together well. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, using a flat-bottom object like a measuring cup to achieve an even layer. This prevents crumbling when you slice the cheesecake later.

If you're looking for variations, consider incorporating crushed nuts or coconut flakes into your crust for added flavor and texture. Almond or pecan meal can be used in place of some of the graham cracker crumbs for a nutty twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the substitute used.

Understanding the Filling

The filling is what truly sets this cheesecake apart with its light and creamy texture. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is adequately softened; this will make blending easier and prevent lumps. Aim for a texture that's smooth and glossy. Overmixing can create air pockets, making it less dense, so mix just until combined after adding the whipped cream and strawberry puree.

Using fresh strawberries makes a significant difference in flavor. When pureeing the strawberries, keep an eye on their ripeness; overly soft strawberries might turn your puree watery. For a bolder strawberry flavor, feel free to add a bit more puree, but be cautious not to alter the balance too much as it could affect the setting.

Ingredients

Gather these items to create your delicious cheesecake!

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped for topping

Make sure to use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cheesecake masterpiece!

Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, and then add in the pureed strawberries.

Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle chopped strawberries over the top for added freshness. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Serve

Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve cold. Enjoy the refreshing strawberry flavor!

Put your cheesecake back in the fridge if you're not serving it right away to keep it firm and cool.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle some melted chocolate or a strawberry sauce on top before serving!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it an ideal dessert for parties or gatherings. After assembling, store it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up perfectly. It’s also great for meal prep, as you can cut portions and keep them in airtight containers for up to three days without sacrificing flavor or texture.

If you're planning to store leftovers, ensure the cheesecake is well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To enhance the presentation, consider drizzling some fresh strawberry sauce over each slice when serving. This not only adds visual appeal but deepens the strawberry flavor in each bite. You might also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and added freshness.

For those looking to add a little extra flair, consider a side of homemade biscotti or shortbread cookies. The crisp texture of the cookies pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake, creating a delightful contrast. Additionally, a glass of sparkling wine or lemonade can complement the light and fruity notes of the cheesecake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing.

→ How long can I keep the cheesecake in the fridge?

The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day in advance.

→ Is there a way to make this cheesecake dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free version.