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No-Bake Cheesecake

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  • #79290

No need to turn on the oven for this amazing creamy cheesecake.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  2-5 hrs
Rating: 5/5

11 reviews

ingredients

2 packages (8 ounce size) cream cheese, softened (do not use low fat)
1 can (14 ounce size) sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 graham cracker pie crust
1 can (21 ounce size) cherry pie filling (or your favorite pie filling)

directions

Beat the cream cheese in a medium-sized bowl until light and fluffy.

Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla and beat well until completely incorporated.

Pour the cheesecake filling into the graham cracker pie crust. Refrigerate for 4-5 hours or until set.

When ready to serve, spread the pie filling over the top of the no-bake cheesecake filling.

recipe tips


Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth blending.

Beat the cream cheese until fluffy before adding other ingredients to avoid lumps.

Add the lemon juice gradually and taste as you go to adjust the tartness.

Smooth the top of the cheesecake with a spatula before chilling for a neat appearance.

Chill the cheesecake in a cool part of the refrigerator where the temperature is consistent.

Avoid overbeating the filling, as incorporating too much air can cause the cheesecake to collapse when setting.

For a decorative touch, pipe whipped cream around the edges before adding the pie filling.

Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing for easier cutting.

Use a warm knife (dipped in hot water and wiped dry) to slice the cheesecake cleanly.

Experiment with different crusts like Oreo or shortbread for a twist on the traditional graham cracker crust.

common recipe questions


Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

It's recommended to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat cream cheese can make the cheesecake less creamy and more prone to separation.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

There isn't a direct substitute for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe, as it provides both sweetness and structure. However, you can make a homemade version using milk and sugar.

How long does the cheesecake need to set in the refrigerator?

The cheesecake should set for at least 4-5 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer texture.

Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust instead of store-bought?

Yes, a homemade graham cracker crust can be used. Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into the pie dish.

Is lemon juice necessary for the recipe?

Lemon juice adds a slight tartness that balances the sweetness and helps the filling set. You can reduce the amount if preferred.

Can I freeze the no-bake cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What other toppings can I use besides cherry pie filling?

You can top the cheesecake with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, caramel, or whipped cream.

Can I add flavors to the cheesecake filling?

Yes, you can add flavors like chocolate, peanut butter, or fruit purees to the filling.

How do I know when the cheesecake is set?

The cheesecake is set when it's firm to the touch and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.


nutrition data

660 calories, 29 grams fat, 93 grams carbohydrates, 10 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    Beautifully creamy and indulgent Texture of the filling. I used shortbread biscuits for my base absolutely amazing idea. It’s my favourite cheesecake ever thank you for sharing this idea 😍

  2. Soul kitchen REVIEW:

    Found it waayyy too sweet. I needed to add more cream cheese, I actually doubled up on my cream cheese by doing this it solidified better and it tasted more like cheese cake than condensed milk cake. On a positive note it was very yummy once I did that and it is simple and fast to make!

  3. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    A favorite recipe of mine and my daughter's.

  4. Catherine REVIEW:

    I received this recipe from a great friend after I complimented her dessert at a dinner party in the late 60's! It is amazing that this wonderfully easy recipe has withstood the test of time. From kids to grownups, its a smash hit!

  5. Anonymous REVIEW:

    I needed an "emergency" dessert for an office party. This worked great and everyone enjoyed it.

  6. Jennifer F. REVIEW:

    You can also make this recipe without the vanilla. I have always made this recipe without the vanilla which I got from my mom! I have never tried it with the vanilla, but it is EXCELLENT without it!!! You should give it a try!

  7. swirl1008 REVIEW:

    I too used this recipe but then I forgot the ingredient! I forgot about the sweetened condensed milk! I'll never forget this recipe again!

  8. trulife4u REVIEW:

    My mom use to make this cheesecake every year for Christmas. Now that I'm grown I try to keep the tradition going. I actually made a cherry cheese this afternoon. I just looked up the recipe because I forgot how much lemon and vanilla extract to put in.

  9. kathykat63 REVIEW:

    This one is definitely a family favorite! It is fast, easy and inexpensive. Fantastic for family gatherings where time really is an issue, but it has to be good.

  10. Sam REVIEW:

    I agree! My mom passed this recipe down to me, and it is all I use, so simple and so very delicious. I love to make it with oreos, using an oreo crust and then smashing up oreos to put in with the filling, or any type of fruit. It is a family favorite, and a potluck favorite! My boyfriend's parents love me for this cheesecake!

  11. Glenys REVIEW:

    I discovered this recipe in a cream a cheese ad years ago and never use any other. It is quick, easy and the least expensive of all the cheese cake recipes I have seen. I always get rave reviews and best of all it has no eggs. One of my daughters-in-law is deadly allergic to eggs and this is a treat she can enjoy without worries.

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