If you love the luscious flavors of fresh strawberries combined with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake but want to skip the oven and lengthy baking times, this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is your dream come true. Bursting with vibrant strawberry flavor and a smooth, velvety filling resting atop a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is irresistibly simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Whether it’s a warm summer day or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tang while saving you precious time in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key for this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, but don’t worry—each component is straightforward and thoughtfully contributes to the final masterpiece. From the fragrant strawberry Jello which carries the berry essence, to the creamy softened cream cheese that forms the rich base, every item has its own important role.
- Strawberry Jello (1 package, 3 oz): Adds classic strawberry flavor with a firm but tender set.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Needed to dissolve the Jello perfectly.
- Frozen strawberry daiquiri mix, thawed (¼ cup): Boosts the natural strawberry taste with a subtle fruity tartness.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Creates that signature creamy texture cheesecake fans adore.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Evaporated milk, chilled (12 oz can): Whipped to add fluffiness and lightness to the cheesecake.
- Graham cracker crumbs (3 cups): Forms the crunchy, buttery base to contrast the creamy top.
- Powdered sugar (5 Tbsp): Sweetens the crust and binds the crumbs seamlessly.
- Butter, melted (12 Tbsp): Binds the crust ingredients and adds richness and moisture.
How to Make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Dissolve the Strawberry Jello
Begin by dissolving the strawberry Jello in one cup of boiling water. This step ensures that the Jello sets properly later and takes on a smooth texture. Then, stir in the thawed strawberry daiquiri mix, which brings an extra zing of real strawberry flavor and adds a subtle complexity to the sweetness. Set this aside to cool so it doesn’t scramble the cream cheese in later steps.
Step 2: Beat Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a handheld mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky and smooth. This is where the cheesecake’s luscious creaminess begins. The sugar blends perfectly with the cream cheese, and the vanilla enhances the flavor, creating a dreamy base for your filling.
Step 3: Combine Jello and Whipped Evaporated Milk
Once the Jello mixture has cooled, add it to the cream cheese blend and mix well to fully incorporate. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled evaporated milk with an electric mixer until it becomes light and fluffy—almost like whipped cream. Gently fold this whipped milk into the Jello and cream cheese mixture, giving your filling a light, airy texture that’s just delightful to bite into.
Step 4: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
In another bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar, then pour in the melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are coated and the mixture sticks together. Press this crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish, making sure it’s evenly spread out to form a solid base for the cheesecake filling.
Step 5: Pour Filling and Chill Overnight
Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the filling to set properly while the flavors meld harmoniously, resulting in a creamy yet firm texture that slices beautifully.
How to Serve No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
The best way to highlight your No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is with fresh strawberry slices arranged elegantly on top. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few sprigs of fresh mint can add a refreshing pop of color and flavor. Alternatively, drizzle a bit of strawberry sauce or whipped cream to elevate the indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a variety of light side treats. Consider serving alongside a fresh berry salad for added freshness or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy contrast. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea also balances the sweetness perfectly, rounding out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making individual mini cheesecakes by dividing the crust and filling into small jars or ramekins. Layering the filling with crushed graham crackers and extra fresh strawberries in a trifle glass offers a beautiful and inviting presentation. You can also top with edible flowers for festive occasions that will impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake should be tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh strawberry taste. Just be sure to consume within that period to enjoy it at its best!
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, or freeze individual portions in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. The texture remains creamy, though it’s best eaten within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve it cold as intended to savor the perfect refreshing texture and taste that make the No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe so beloved.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry daiquiri mix?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be pureed and used as a substitute for the daiquiri mix. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly and keep in mind that fresh puree may slightly affect the setting of the Jello, so consider adding a bit more gelatin if needed.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour crumbs. The crust will still provide that delicious buttery crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Press the crust firmly and evenly in the dish so it holds together well, and make sure the melted butter fully coats the crumbs. Chilling the crust alone for about 10 minutes before pouring the filling can also help maintain its texture.
Can I use light cream cheese or reduced-fat alternatives?
While you can use light cream cheese, the texture and creaminess of the cheesecake may be slightly less rich and smooth. For best results with this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, full-fat cream cheese is recommended to achieve that indulgent mouthfeel.
How long does this cheesecake need to chill before serving?
At least 8 hours or overnight is ideal for the filling to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully. This patience rewards you with a perfectly firm yet creamy cheesecake every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a delightfully easy and impressive dessert, this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s quick to assemble, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, and creamy enough to satisfy all your cheesecake cravings. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find it becoming a go-to favorite for every season and celebration!
Print
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no-bake strawberry cheesecake is a delightful and creamy dessert that combines the sweet flavors of strawberry Jello and daiquiri mix with a smooth cream cheese filling on a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather or when you want a hassle-free treat, this recipe requires no baking and sets overnight in the fridge for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (3-oz) package strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- ¼ cup frozen strawberry daiquiri mix, thawed
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk, chilled
Crust
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 Tbsp powdered sugar
- 12 Tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Dissolve Jello: In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello completely in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir in the thawed strawberry daiquiri mix thoroughly, then set aside and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare cream cheese mixture: Using a handheld mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the cooled Jello mixture to the cream cheese blend and mix well to combine.
- Whip evaporated milk: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the evaporated milk with an electric mixer until it becomes light, fluffy, and slightly thickened. Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk into the Jello and cream cheese mixture to maintain the airy texture.
- Make the crust: In another bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9″x13″ dish to form a solid crust layer.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the creamy strawberry cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the evaporated milk is well chilled before whipping for best volume and texture.
- If strawberry daiquiri mix isn’t available, you can substitute with strawberry syrup or fresh strawberry puree for similar flavor.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent it from falling apart when serving.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Use a non-stick spray or parchment paper for easier removal if desired.
