Easy No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

This Easy No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake is creamy, fruity, and simple to make with Philadelphia cream cheese and strawberry gelatin.

The texture is rich yet light, with a buttery cookie crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a sweet strawberry topping. It’s a simple dessert that looks fancy but takes minimal effort. I still remember my grandma pulling out a chilled no-bake cheesecake from her old glass fridge dish - she always said it was her “summer secret” when she didn’t want to turn on the oven.

What You Need to Know

• Creamy and fruity: The combination of cream cheese and strawberry gelatin makes this cheesecake smooth and full of flavor.
• Storage tip: Keep chilled in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered tightly.
• Make-ahead tip: Perfect to make the night before serving so it sets beautifully.
• Modern twist: Use coconut cookies for the crust to add a tropical flavor.

Ingredients Overview

This is a quick rundown of what you’ll need. Exact amounts are in the printable recipe card.

• Cookies – coconut cookies for extra sweetness, or graham crackers for a classic crust
• Butter – binds the crushed cookies into a firm base
• Philadelphia cream cheese – gives the filling its creamy, tangy flavor
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the filling smoothly
• Heavy whipping cream – adds richness and helps the cheesecake set
• Strawberry gelatin – gives a sweet strawberry flavor and helps firm the filling
• Fresh strawberries – garnish on top for flavor and presentation

How to Make Grandma’s No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Crush the cookies in a bag with a rolling pin until fine. Mix with melted butter and press into an 8-inch springform pan. Chill for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy whipping cream until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the strawberry gelatin according to the package directions. Let it cool, then stir into the cream cheese mixture until blended.

Step 4: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Top with fresh strawberries, then refrigerate at least 4 hours until set. Slice and serve chilled.

Grandma’s Tips

• Always let the gelatin cool slightly before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
• Chill the cheesecake overnight for the firmest, creamiest slices.

Modern Updates

• Try swapping strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different twist.
• Use a reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten up the filling.

FAQs

Does no bake cheesecake get firm?

Yes, it firms up as it chills in the refrigerator. Gelatin helps stabilize the filling so it slices cleanly.

How long does no bake cheesecake need to set?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?

Yes, but the cheesecake won’t set as firmly. Gelatin helps it hold shape while fresh strawberries add flavor on top.

Can I make no bake cheesecake ahead of time?

Definitely. It’s one of the best make-ahead desserts since it needs chilling time. Prepare it a day in advance for stress-free serving.