No bake strawberry cheesecake is a delightful dessert that doesn’t require an oven. It’s made with fresh strawberries, cream cheese, and a graham cracker crust. This cheesecake is popular because it’s easy to make and perfect for warm weather when you want to avoid using the oven.
One of the main benefits of a no bake cheesecake is the ease of preparation. You don’t need to worry about baking or water baths. Simply mix, chill, and enjoy. This type of cheesecake is ideal for busy schedules and for those who prefer a lighter, fluffier texture.
Table of contents
Ingredients and Tools to prepare No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
Essential Ingredients
To make a delicious no bake strawberry cheesecake, you need a few key ingredients. Start with cream cheese, which forms the base of the cheesecake. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and a vibrant color. For the crust, graham crackers are a popular choice. Crush them finely and mix with melted butter and a bit of sugar to form a solid base.
You can also use variations for different tastes. Mascarpone can be substituted for cream cheese to give a richer flavor. If strawberries are out of season, other berries like raspberries or blueberries work well too
Tools Needed
Having the right tools makes the preparation process smoother. You will need mixing bowls, a food processor, and a springform pan. The food processor helps in finely crushing the graham crackers and blending the cheesecake filling. A springform pan is ideal because it allows for easy removal of the cheesecake once it’s set (MamaGourmand) (Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking).
A hand mixer or stand mixer is also necessary for blending the cream cheese and whipping the cream. Use a rubber spatula to fold ingredients gently and ensure a smooth mixture. For the strawberry topping, a small saucepan and a whisk are useful to cook and thicken the mixture.
In summary, the essential ingredients for a no bake strawberry cheesecake include cream cheese, strawberries, and graham crackers. The necessary tools are a food processor, springform pan, and a mixer. These ingredients and tools will help you create a delicious and beautiful cheesecake effortlessly.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making the Crust
To make the crust for your no bake strawberry cheesecake, start by gathering your ingredients: graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Begin by placing the graham crackers in a food processor and pulsing them into fine crumbs. You will need about 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, which usually comes from 10 full sheets of graham crackers.
Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl and add ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until combined. Then, add 6 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed and packed tightly. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs down. Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes to set.
Preparing the Filling
For the filling, you need cream cheese, sugar, heavy whipping cream, and strawberries. Begin by washing and hulling 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries. Puree the strawberries in a food processor until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 24 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
To stabilize the filling, use 1 sachet of unflavored gelatin. In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons of cold water and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. Microwave the gelatin for 30 seconds or until dissolved. Gradually add the dissolved gelatin to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
Assembling the Cheesecake
Once the filling is ready, gently fold in the strawberry puree until evenly mixed. Pour the filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set properly
In summary, making a no bake strawberry cheesecake involves three main steps: preparing the graham cracker crust, making the cream cheese filling with strawberry puree, and assembling the cheesecake by pouring the filling over the crust and chilling it until set. This method ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake with a delicious strawberry flavor.
Strawberry Topping Variations
Classic Strawberry Topping
A classic strawberry topping adds a sweet, glossy finish to your no bake strawberry cheesecake. To prepare, wash and hull 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Slice half of the strawberries and chop the rest into small pieces. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries with ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and resembles a glaze. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely before spreading it over the cheesecake.
Fresh Strawberry Garnish
For a simpler approach, use fresh strawberries as a topping. Wash and hull 1 ½ cups of strawberries. Cut them into halves or slices, depending on your preference. Arrange the strawberry pieces neatly over the chilled cheesecake. This method highlights the freshness of the strawberries and adds a beautiful, vibrant look to the dessert. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Alternative Toppings
Experiment with different toppings to customize your cheesecake. A drizzle of melted chocolate, either dark or white, can add a rich flavor contrast. For a mixed berry topping, use a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Cook them in the same way as the classic strawberry topping to create a mixed berry glaze. Adding whipped cream puffs around the edges of the cheesecake provides a decorative and delicious touch
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
No bake strawberry cheesecake is best served chilled. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator and carefully release it from the springform pan. For a clean cut, dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and slice the cheesecake. Repeat this step between cuts to maintain clean edges. Garnish each slice with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant presentation.
For special occasions, consider adding decorative elements. Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edges of the cheesecake and top each with a small strawberry or berry of your choice. This adds a professional touch and makes the dessert more visually appealing. Serve on a decorative plate to enhance the presentation.
Storing Leftover Cheesecake
Proper storage is essential to keep your no bake strawberry cheesecake fresh. If you have leftovers, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents the cheesecake from drying out and helps maintain its creamy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake. Before freezing, ensure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps retain the cheesecake’s texture and flavor
When ready to serve, you can add fresh toppings like strawberries or whipped cream to refresh the look and taste of the cheesecake. Freezing individual slices can also be convenient for quick, single-serving desserts.
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust in the pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Nutrition
Conclusion
In conclusion, no bake strawberry cheesecake is a simple, versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavor, it’s sure to be a hit. Remember to use room temperature ingredients, bloom gelatin properly, and allow ample chilling time for the best results. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy a beautiful, delicious cheesecake without the hassle of baking. This dessert is easy to prepare, store, and serve, making it an ideal choice for both casual and special gatherings.
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FAQ
What is no bake strawberry cheesecake?
No bake strawberry cheesecake is a dessert made with a graham cracker crust, cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries. It doesn’t require baking and is set by chilling in the refrigerator.
How do I store no bake strawberry cheesecake?
Store no bake strawberry cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries. Adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Why didn’t my cheesecake set properly?
If your cheesecake didn’t set, it might be due to insufficient chilling time or improperly dissolved gelatin. Make sure to chill for at least 4 hours and ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and well incorporated.