When the summer heat is on, there’s nothing quite like a cool, creamy dessert to satisfy your cravings. My ultimate go-to has always been homemade cheesecake—it's a treat that requires no baking and is served deliciously chilled! One of the best things about cheesecake is its versatility; you can mix in cookies, fruit, chocolate, or jam—the possibilities are endless. Today, I’m excited to share a classic take on this beloved dessert, featuring fresh strawberries, courtesy of Lisa Basini from the Baking Coach. Let’s dive into this refreshing No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake!
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these ingredients:
- One 9-inch pie pan or 10-inch tart pan
- 10 sheets of graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons of butter, melted
- One 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 package of vanilla instant pudding mix
- ½ cup of whole milk
- ½ cup of fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 small container of non-dairy whipped topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
To make the graham cracker crust:
- Place the 10 sheets of graham crackers in a resealable bag and seal it tightly.
- Using a rolling pin, gently crush the crackers until you have fine crumbs.
- Add the melted butter to the bag and mix it well with the crushed crackers until fully combined.
- Press the crumb mixture into the base of your chosen pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Place the pan in the fridge to harden while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
For the creamy cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and vanilla pudding mix.
- Using a mixer or whisk, blend them at medium speed until smooth. Gradually add the milk while mixing, being careful not to create lumps.
- Gently fold in one cup of the non-dairy whipped topping until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake
- Spoon the cheesecake filling onto the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. (For the best results, chill it overnight!)
4. Top with Whipped Topping and Strawberries
Once the cheesecake has chilled:
- Spread the remaining non-dairy whipped topping over the top of the cheesecake.
- Decorate with freshly sliced strawberries, arranging them as desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice into this delightful cheesecake and serve it chilled. Each bite is a refreshing blend of creamy and fruity goodness, perfect for a summer gathering or a sweet treat on a hot day!
Conclusion
This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping you cool this summer. With its simple preparation and delicious flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
Want to add some more berries to your baking? Try out the Baking Coaches Berry Crumb Bars, that make the most delicious all year treat!