Are you craving a creamy, dreamy cheesecake but dreading the oven time? Then this no-bake strawberry cheesecake recipe is your answer! This delightful dessert is surprisingly easy to make, requiring no baking whatsoever, making it perfect for a hot summer day or any time you want a quick and satisfying treat. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning, healthy-ish, and absolutely delicious homemade dessert!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure an even layer.
- Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. An electric mixer works best for this step.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and spread evenly.
- Arrange half of the sliced strawberries on top of the filling, creating a pretty pattern.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
Add the Final Touches:
- Before serving, arrange the remaining sliced strawberries decoratively on top of the chilled cheesecake.
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice and serve this easy no-bake strawberry cheesecake!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer crust, use digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
- Feel free to add a pinch of salt to the crust for enhanced flavor.
- If you don't have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained).
- For a different flavor profile, try using raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
- To make this a truly quick dinner idea, prepare the crust and filling ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This no-bake strawberry cheesecake is the perfect quick dinner idea, a delightful dessert for any occasion, and an easy recipe even beginner cooks can master. The recipe blends simple ingredients to create a delicious dish. Enjoy this healthy, homemade creation!