A simple, make-ahead no-bake cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and a vibrant mixed berry topping. Perfect for beginners and summer gatherings.
Author:Avery
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:4 hr 35 min
Yield:10 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
â…“ cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Combine graham cracker crumbs and ¼ cup sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until crumbs are moistened. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract until just combined.
Pour cream cheese mixture over the crust. Smooth the top.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
While the cheesecake chills, prepare the berry topping. Combine mixed berries and ¼ cup sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until berries break down.
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering berries. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Once the cheesecake is firm, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Spoon the cooled berry topping over the cheesecake.
Slice and serve.
Notes
For a glossier berry sauce, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the berry mixture after it thickens.
If using frozen berries, do not thaw them before making the sauce.
Chill time can be extended overnight for a firmer texture.
To prevent cracks in baked cheesecakes, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing.
For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.