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Easy Creamy No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Recipe Perfect for Summer Desserts

no bake lemon cheesecake - featured image

A bright, refreshing, and creamy no-bake lemon cheesecake that comes together quickly and is perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe features a crunchy graham cracker crust and a silky lemon cream cheese filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional toppings: fresh berries or lemon slices, whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and sugar. Stir until crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the filling base: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes on medium speed. Scrape down sides as needed.
  3. Add lemon and vanilla: Mix in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat gently until combined.
  4. Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes on high speed.
  5. Fold the cream into the cream cheese mixture gently to keep airy texture.
  6. Assemble and chill: Pour filling over chilled crust, smooth the top, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Serve: Run a knife around edges to loosen cheesecake, release springform pan ring, top with fresh berries or lemon slices and whipped cream if desired. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Chill mixing bowls and beaters for better whipped cream. Fold whipped cream gently to maintain fluffiness. Press crust firmly to avoid crumbling. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, lemon cheesecake, summer dessert, easy cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, lemon dessert, no-bake dessert