No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe: 5 Simple Steps

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: a creamy no bake strawberry cheesecake that’s just bursting with flavor! Seriously, every bite is like a sweet summer day with that delightful balance of sweetness and a hint of tanginess that keeps you coming back for more. I remember the first time I made this recipe for a family gathering. Everyone was raving about it, and I felt like a superstar in the kitchen! The best part? You don’t even have to turn on the oven! This no bake strawberry cheesecake recipe is as easy as it gets, and it’s perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

no bake strawberry cheesecake recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed until smooth
1 tablespoon gelatin powder
1/4 cup water, warm for dissolving the gelatin

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this no bake strawberry cheesecake! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a luscious dessert that’s sure to impress.

Preparing the Crust

First things first, we need that delicious crust! In a mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter. You want to mix it until it resembles wet sand. Now, grab a 9-inch springform pan and press that mixture firmly into the bottom. This is super important because a well-pressed crust provides a stable base for our creamy filling. Make sure it’s even, and don’t be shy about using your fingers to really pack it down. Once you’ve got it looking good, set it aside while we whip up the filling.

Making the Filling

In a large bowl, beat those softened cream cheese packages with the granulated sugar until it’s perfectly smooth—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the vanilla extract and fresh lemon juice, mixing until everything is combined and creamy. Now, here comes the gelatin magic! In a small bowl, dissolve your gelatin powder in warm water. Just let it sit for a moment to cool slightly before mixing it into the cream cheese mixture. This step is key for helping the cheesecake set! In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—trust me, you want that fluffy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s beautifully combined, and then stir in that fresh strawberry puree until evenly distributed. Your filling is now ready!

Assembling the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over your prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, making it look as pretty as can be! Now, here’s the tough part—patience! Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until it’s fully set. This chilling time is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld together and gives you that perfect slice later on. Once set, you can garnish with fresh strawberries before serving. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your no bake strawberry cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to guide you through the process.

Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality cream cheese you can find. It makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Trust me, you want that rich, creamy goodness!
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve that smooth and creamy filling without any lumps. No one wants a lumpy cheesecake!
Whipping Cream Technique: When whipping your heavy cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are cold. This helps the cream whip up faster and gives you those gorgeous stiff peaks. It’s all about that fluffy texture!
Gelatin Magic: Don’t skip on the gelatin or let it cool too much before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. If it’s too cool, it might clump up. Keep it warm but not hot for best results.
Chill Time: Patience is key! Allow your cheesecake to chill for the full 4 hours, or even overnight if you can. The flavors deepen and it sets beautifully, making for a perfect slice.
Serving Suggestions: For a beautiful presentation, garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry puree. It adds a pop of color and extra flavor that’s hard to resist!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to making a stunning no bake strawberry cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the process and, of course, the delicious results!

Variations

Now, let’s get creative with some fun variations of this no bake strawberry cheesecake! There are so many delicious twists you can add to make this dessert your own. Here are a few of my favorites:

Mixed Berry Delight: Swap out the strawberry puree for a blend of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant mixed berry cheesecake. The combination of flavors adds a lovely tartness that complements the creaminess beautifully!
Chocolate Lover’s Cheesecake: If you’re a chocolate fan, mix in some melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling. You can also use chocolate wafer cookies for the crust—decadent, rich, and oh-so-delicious!
Citrus Burst: Add some zest and juice from oranges or limes to the filling for a refreshing citrus twist. This brightens up the flavor profile and pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
Nutty Crust: For a gluten-free option, try using almond or pecan meal instead of graham cracker crumbs for the crust. It adds a lovely nuttiness and a unique texture that’s simply delightful.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before pouring it onto the crust for a beautiful marbled effect. The sweetness of the caramel pairs perfectly with the strawberries!
Spiced Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. This works especially well if you’re making it during the fall season!

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Each variation brings its own unique charm, and you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy this no bake strawberry cheesecake!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your no bake strawberry cheesecake properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious. If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s that good!), here’s how to make sure it stays tasty:

Refrigeration: Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting its flavor.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cheesecake! Cut it into individual slices and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should be good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
No Reheating Needed: Since this cheesecake is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just slice and enjoy straight from the fridge! If you want to serve it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Following these simple storage tips will help you savor every creamy, dreamy bite of your no bake strawberry cheesecake long after you’ve made it!

Nutritional Information

When you’re indulging in this creamy no bake strawberry cheesecake, it’s always nice to know what you’re treating yourself to! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per slice, based on typical ingredient values. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and measurements you use.

Calories: 350
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 4g

Enjoy every slice knowing you’re savoring a delightful dessert that balances sweetness with a hint of tanginess. Happy indulging!

FAQ Section

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess and richness of your cheesecake. For the best texture, I recommend using regular cream cheese, but if you’re looking to lighten things up, low-fat will work just fine!

What can I substitute for gelatin?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use agar-agar instead of gelatin. Just follow the package instructions for the right amount to use, and remember that it sets more firmly than gelatin, so adjust accordingly!

How can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Easy peasy! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed nuts for the crust. There are plenty of gluten-free options available that work beautifully!

Can I add more strawberries to the filling?
Of course! You can definitely increase the strawberry puree if you want a stronger strawberry flavor. Just make sure to maintain the overall balance of the filling so it sets properly. You might need to adjust the gelatin slightly if you add a lot more!

What’s the best way to slice my cheesecake?
To get clean slices, I suggest using a warm knife. Just dip your knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice. This helps prevent the filling from sticking to the knife and keeps your slices looking beautiful!

How long can I store the cheesecake in the fridge?
Your no bake strawberry cheesecake will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s covered tightly to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Definitely! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two ahead of time. Just let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavors get even better as it sits!

What should I serve with the cheesecake?
I love garnishing with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry puree on top! You could also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It adds a lovely touch and enhances the overall dessert experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—no baking required!
Deliciously creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess from fresh strawberries.
Impresses guests with stunning presentation and flavor.
Versatile recipe that allows for endless flavor variations.
Great make-ahead dessert—perfect for parties and gatherings.
Uses simple, accessible ingredients you probably already have.
Light and refreshing, making it a hit for warm-weather occasions.
Kid-friendly and loved by all ages—who can resist cheesecake?

For more information on the health benefits of strawberries, check out this article.

To learn more about the role of gelatin in desserts, visit this resource.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.