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–+ servings

Best Ever No-Bake Cheesecake

An indulgent yet simple dessert featuring a creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any gathering without the need for baking.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Serving Size 8 servings

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted) 1 stick

For the cheesecake

  • 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese (softened)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream
  • Additional whipped cream and/or fresh fruit or pie filling optional but recommended

Instructions

Preparation

  • Very lightly grease a 9" or 10" springform pan and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Pour the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan. Use your hands and fingers to press it into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan.
  • Freeze the crust for 10 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Mixing the Filling

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream on high speed with a whisk attachment for about 5-7 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice with the paddle attachment for about 2 minutes until creamy and fluffy, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
  • Add in the sour cream and mix well, scraping the bowl as necessary.
  • Gently fold in the whipped cream until thoroughly combined and no whipped cream streaks remain.

Assembling the Cheesecake

  • Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly on top of the crust and smooth out the top.
  • Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm and set, about 2 hours, or up to overnight.

Serving the Cheesecake

  • Just before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream and cherry pie filling or fresh strawberries.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps. For extra richness, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. To make slicing easier, run a warm knife along the edge of the springform pan before releasing it. Customization options include flavored extracts or seasonal fruits.