No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix Crust Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan:
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan or pie dish to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla:
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Whip Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in Cream:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spread Filling:
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in the pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate while preparing the strawberry topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- Cook Strawberries:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken and the strawberries release their juice, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool Topping:
- Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
- Add Topping:
- Once the strawberry topping has cooled, spoon it evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
Step 5: Serve
- Release and Slice:
- If using a springform pan, carefully remove the sides before slicing. Serve chilled.
Tips:
- Smooth Texture: Ensure the cream cheese is well softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Fruit Variations: You can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for different variations of this cheesecake.
This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!