Easy No Bake Cheesecake Pie Recipe

This easy no bake cheesecake pie recipe could not be more simple. I was introduced to it many, many (many and more many) years ago by a friend. I’m pretty sure that I ate the entire pie in one sitting. The pie uses a premade graham cracker pie crust, which is a lot cheaper and less hassle than making your own. It requires only a handful of ingredients, and of course, no baking is required. If you’re feeling fancy, you can add a layer of fruit topping to give it an extra zing.

Why I Love This Easy No Bake Cheesecake Pie Recipe

Cheesecake is amazing. I could eat it every single day. Cream cheese just has the perfect amount of zip, and you can put any kind of fruit topping on, if you want. I am particular to cherry and blueberry, but you can get canned pineapple, too. You can also make your own compote with frozen fruit, too. 

For a delicious variation, try using an oreo cracker crust or lady fingers.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Pie dish (or pre-made graham cracker pie crust)

The History of Cheesecake: A Timeless Dessert

Cheesecake is a dessert that transcends cultures and centuries, evolving from its ancient origins to the modern variations we love today. The journey of cheesecake began in ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes at the first Olympic games in 776 BC as a source of energy. The Romans, after conquering Greece, adopted the recipe, adding their twist with crushed cheese and eggs, and spread it across their empire. It eventually made its way to Britain, then to Americas. And finally, the New York cheesecake made it perfect.

FAQs

1. Can I eat it right away? While you can eat the cheesecake immediately after preparing, it tends to be too thin and may not hold its shape well. For optimal results, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least an hour before eating, though chilling it for 3 hours is recommended to ensure it sets properly and achieves the desired texture. You can also freeze immediately and then defrost in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow slicing.
2. How long does it take for a no-bake cheesecake to set? A no-bake cheesecake typically takes about 3 hours to set in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and firmness, letting it chill overnight is highly recommended. This allows the cheesecake to fully firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
3. Do I need a specific brand of cream cheese (like Philadelphia)? Any brand of cream cheese works well for this recipe, offering flexibility depending on availability or preference. Alternatively, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, mascarpone, or ricotta can replace cream cheese for those seeking a different flavor profile or texture in their cheesecake.
4. Should you bake the crust of a no-bake cheesecake? Baking the crust is not necessary, especially if using a store-bought graham cracker crust designed for no-bake desserts. However, pre-baking a homemade crust can enhance its stability and add a delightful crunch. It’s a matter of personal preference and the specific requirements of your recipe.
5. Is egg necessary in cheesecake? In no-bake cheesecake recipes, eggs are not required. The absence of eggs contributes to a lighter, fluffier texture, distinguishing it from its baked counterpart. This also simplifies the process, making it more accessible and reducing preparation time.
6. What flavors go well with cheesecake? Cheesecake is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide range of toppings from fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to rich chocolate, caramel, and butterscotch sauces. Seasonal flavors like peppermint for the holidays or lemon curd for a summer dessert also complement the creamy base splendidly.
7. What is the difference between New York cheesecake and regular cheesecake? The main difference lies in the texture and ingredients. New York cheesecake is denser and richer, primarily due to its heavy reliance on cream cheese. Regular cheesecake, on the other hand, includes ingredients like heavy cream and sour cream for a lighter, tangier flavor profile.
8. Is no-bake cheesecake better than baked cheesecake? Preference between no-bake and baked cheesecake comes down to texture and convenience. No-bake cheesecake is praised for its ease and mousse-like texture, whereas baked cheesecake is known for its creamy, smooth consistency. Taste-wise, they can be remarkably similar, so it often comes down to personal preference.
9. How do you make a no-bake cheesecake set? For a no-bake cheesecake to set properly, it’s crucial to incorporate air into the batter, usually achieved by whipping the cream cheese mixture.
10. How do I store leftovers? Leftover no-bake cheesecake should be covered and stored in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 5 days, maintaining its flavor and texture. For longer storage, freezing is an option, allowing the cheesecake to last for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

The Final: Easy No Bake Cheesecake Pie Recipe