This no-bake cheesecake is my basic vanilla cheesecake recipe that can be used to create so many different variations. This recipe will give you a rich, creamy and decadent dessert that sets firm in the refrigerator. It is also quick, easy, and light.
Crush the graham cracker/biscuits in a food processor. Add sugar and the melted butter and stir to combine.Pro tip - You can also place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them.
Pour crumbs into a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of your spoon or measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly to form a crust. I am using an 8-inch springform pan because I like a little height in my cheesecakes. Pro tip - Pressing down firmly will ensure a good base for the cheesecake and it won't fall apart when you cut slices.
Place the crust in the fridge for 15 minutes to chill. This will ensure the crust sets which prevents crumbs in the batter.
Prepare cheesecake mixture
Whipping cream - In the bowl of a stand mixer, with the whisk attachment whip, the whipping cream with cornstarch to stiff peaks. Remove from the bowl and set aside.
Cream cheese - In the same large bowl, with the paddle attachment, combine cream cheese, and sour cream. Make sure there are no lumps. Add the powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula. Combine well. Pro tip - At this point, you can also add any other ingredients such as fruit fillings or sauces. For example, if you plan to make a flavored cheesecake ice cream such as strawberry puree for strawberry cheesecake ice cream.
Pour the mixture over the chilled cookie crust. Tap on the counter 2 to 3 times to help the mixture settle. Use an offset spatula to level the top well.
Chill the cheesecake
Chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours - preferably overnight. I like to garnish with fresh berries and whipped cream swirls.
This cheesecake can be served as is and needs nothing else, such cheesecake toppings.
Recipe Notes
All your ingredients must be full-fat. In particular, no low-fat whipping cream or cream cheese. It's the high-fat percentage that gives a firm cheesecake.
Whip the whipping cream to stiff peaks. This is very important, which is why I do it separately in another bowl and then fold it in. Also, make sure the whipped cream is thoroughly chilled, so it will whip to stiff peaks.
Use room temperature cream cheese and sour cream when making baked or no-bake cheesecakes. Chill cream cheese will give a lumpy batter.
Whipping cream must be chilled well before you whip it. Do not freeze whipped cream - if necessary place a bowl of ice water below to keep it cold. See my 4 methods for making whipped cream.
If you live in a hot humid place try using stabilized whipped cream instead. It will help hold the cheesecake for longer at room temperature.
Lemon juice does not give the cheesecake a lemon flavor. It just helps bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Save toppings such as fruits and fillings closer to serving time. Fruits can bleed juices and go limp if put on the cake too early.
The nutrition information and metric conversion are calculated automatically. I cannot guarantee its accuracy. If this data is important to you please verify with your trusted nutrition calculator. Thank you