Name: Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 14 oz OREOs; ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; 20 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup strawberry preserves (or strawberry ice cream topping); ⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream; fresh strawberries (for decorating)

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There’s something truly special about making a Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake on a warm summer day. I remember the first time I made this delightful dessert. It was for a family gathering, and I wanted to impress my loved ones with something sweet yet refreshing. The joy of mixing cream cheese with delicious strawberries and then layering it all into a beautiful crust is an experience like no other. I can still hear the compliments ringing in my ears as everyone savored the creamy goodness. This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a memory-maker.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Food Processor

What’s Great About This Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the main reasons I adore the Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up this dessert. It requires minimal effort and even less cooking, which makes it perfect for those who want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Summer Gatherings

There’s nothing quite like a chilled cheesecake on a hot day. When I make this dessert during summer barbeques, it never fails to impress. The vibrant colors of the fresh strawberries combined with a creamy filling make it an eye-catching centerpiece. Plus, it’s the perfect way to cool down after a day in the sun.

Versatile and Customizable

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. While strawberries are a classic choice, you can easily switch to other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. This means you can adapt it based on the seasonal fruits available. It’s a blank canvas for your creativity, and it encourages experimentation!

Decadent Texture

The texture of the Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is a delightful mix of creamy and smooth. The layers of filling sit perfectly on the crisp crust, creating a satisfying bite every time. The ganache on top adds an indulgent touch that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.

Family-Friendly Fun

Making this cheesecake can easily turn into a family project. I often involve my kids in the process of mixing and layering the ingredients. It turns into a fun activity, and they love being part of creating something delicious. Sharing this dessert with them makes it even more special.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a family reunion, or simply a treat for yourself, this cheesecake fits the bill. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. The Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is truly a dessert for every occasion.

Ingredients Required for Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

When creating a Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake, the choice of ingredients is truly important. Each one plays a vital role in the final taste and texture, resulting in a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. You’ll find that the combination of the smooth cream cheese, sweet strawberry preserves, and rich chocolate chips creates a harmonious flavor profile that everyone will love.

14 oz OREOs: These classic cookies form the base for your crust, providing a rich and chocolatey flavor.
½ cup unsalted butter (melted): This binds the crust together, adding richness to the OREOs.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used in the ganache, these chips melt beautifully to create a smooth topping.
⅓ cup heavy whipping cream: This adds creaminess to the ganache and enhances the overall texture.
20 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the show, giving the cheesecake its signature creaminess.
½ cup powdered sugar: This sweetens the filling without making it grainy.
½ cup sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
½ cup strawberry preserves or strawberry ice cream topping: A key ingredient for that fruity burst in every bite.
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream: Additional cream to enhance the ganache.
fresh strawberries: To decorate and add a fresh taste to the cheesecake.

Preparation Steps for Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

Making a Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is an enjoyable process that you can easily follow. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a delicious dessert. So let’s get started!

Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and set aside. This helps in easy removal of the cheesecake after it sets.
Place the OREOs in a food processor and pulse until only fine crumbs remain. The texture should resemble sand. Drizzle in the melted unsalted butter and pulse several times until completely incorporated; this mixture will be the base of your crust.
Transfer the crumbs to the springform pan and press firmly into the bottom and evenly up the sides of the pan. Ensure there are no gaps, as this will hold the cheesecake filling. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until the crust is firm.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and no lumps remain, creating a silky ganache.
Pour the ganache over the cooled crust and spread evenly with an offset spatula. The ganache will add a rich flavor and a beautiful sheen.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache.
Beat another cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside; this whipped cream will lighten the filling.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese for 2 to 3 minutes on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. It should be creamy and free of lumps.
Beat in the powdered sugar until no lumps remain; the mixture will become even sweeter and creamier.
Beat in the sour cream until nice and creamy, blending all the flavors together seamlessly.
Gently fold in the whipped cream and strawberry preserves, careful to keep the mixture airy and fluffy. You want this to be light and full of flavor.
Pour the cheesecake filling into the springform pan and spread into an even layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the cheesecake is firm.
As the cheesecake sets, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.
Drizzle the ganache over the top of the cheesecake, creating a beautiful finish. Top with fresh strawberries and keep refrigerated until ready to serve. This adds an inviting touch and a burst of freshness.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling is Key: The cheesecake needs several hours to firm up. Plan ahead to ensure it sets properly.
Flavor Variations: Try different fruit preserves or toppings like crushed nuts for added texture.
Using High-Quality Ingredients: This can significantly impact the taste, so choose fresh strawberries and quality chocolate.
Don’t Rush the Cooling: Make sure to let the layers cool completely before adding the next layer for the best results.

Make It Your Own

Get creative with your Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake! Here are some tips to help you customize it.

Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days for best texture and flavor preservation.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Pairing: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Additional Toppings: Consider adding nuts, coconut flakes, or caramel drizzle for a fun twist.
Make Bars: Instead of a round cheesecake, try pressing the crust into a square pan to make bars!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake, there are numerous delightful options to consider:

Chilled Slices: Serve each slice chilled on a plate for a refreshing treat, perfect for summer gatherings.
Fruit Garnish: Top each serving with additional fresh strawberries for a pop of color and flavor.
Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream on top enhances the texture and adds sweetness.
Festive Occasions: Ideal for birthdays or holidays, this cheesecake adds a special touch to any dessert table.
Picnic Treat: Pack slices for a picnic or outdoor event; it’s easy to transport and always a hit.
With Coffee: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage Tip: For best results, store in the refrigerator and cover it to maintain freshness.

FAQ

It’s best to refrigerate the Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures that the cheesecake is fully set. If you’re in a hurry, you can chill it for a minimum of 2 hours, but a longer chilling time will yield a firmer texture.

Absolutely! While strawberries are a classic choice for this cheesecake, you can substitute them with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. Just remember to adjust the amount of fruit preserves you use based on the sweetness of the fruit. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors for that perfect creamy dessert.

Using a springform pan is highly recommended for the Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake. It allows for easy removal of the cheesecake once it’s set, ensuring you have a clean slice without damaging the edges. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular pie dish, but be cautious when serving to avoid breaking the crust.

Yes, making the Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake in advance is a great idea! It can be prepared up to 2 days ahead of time. Just store it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen, making the cheesecake even more delicious when it’s time to serve.

Conclusion

The Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is a delightful treat that combines simplicity and flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just indulging on a warm summer day. I encourage you to try making this cheesecake at home; it’s sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a dessert that will bring smiles to everyone at the table.