Name: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: PT-487877H55M4S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust); 24 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves (optional, for glaze)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake comes together without any baking, making it incredibly simple and convenient. The texture is light, fluffy, and creamy, and the fresh strawberry flavor adds the perfect burst of sweetness and color. It’s an ideal dessert for summer, and because it sets in the fridge, it’s easy to make ahead. Plus, it looks impressive without requiring advanced baking skills.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter, melted
Granulated sugar
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon juice
Heavy whipping cream
Fresh strawberries
Strawberry jam or preserves (optional, for glaze)

Directions

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until set.
Once set, arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake. For a glossy finish, warm a bit of strawberry jam and brush it lightly over the strawberries.
Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

Makes 10–12 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 6–8 hours
Total time: About 7–8 hours

Variations

Berry blend: Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a triple-berry twist.
Chocolate crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a deeper flavor.
Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Mini cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for individual servings—perfect for parties.
Strawberry swirl: Blend fresh strawberries into the filling for a marbled effect.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap the cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
No reheating is necessary—serve directly from the fridge.

FAQs

Does this cheesecake really set without baking?

Yes, the whipped cream and cream cheese firm up as they chill, creating a stable, sliceable texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for the topping, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained first.

What type of cream cheese works best?

Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese for the best texture. Avoid spreadable or whipped varieties.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best when chilled overnight, making it perfect for preparing a day in advance.

How do I prevent the crust from falling apart?

Make sure to chill the crust thoroughly before adding the filling to help it stay firm.

Can I skip the lemon juice?

Lemon juice adds a slight tang and helps balance the sweetness, but it can be omitted if needed.

How long should I whip the cream?

Whip until stiff peaks form to ensure the filling holds its shape.

Can I make this in a pie dish?

Yes, but a springform pan gives the cheesecake a cleaner look and easier removal.

Is this cheesecake very sweet?

It’s mildly sweet with a balance of tangy cream cheese and fresh fruit. You can adjust the sugar to taste.

What if I don’t have strawberry jam for the glaze?

You can skip it or make a quick glaze by reducing fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar over the stove.

Conclusion

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is the ultimate easy dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. With no oven required and a refreshing, creamy filling, it’s perfect for summer days, dinner parties, or just a special treat. Packed with strawberry flavor and a buttery crust, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.