No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake

No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. Easy to make and requiring no oven, this cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth lemon-flavored cream cheese filling. It’s ideal for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or simply a cool treat at home.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 7 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 1 package lemon Jell-O, 3 ounces
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

Instructions

Crust

• Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a medium bowl.
• Add melted butter and mix thoroughly with a fork until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture into a 9-inch or 10-inch springform pan.
• Press crumbs firmly into the bottom and gently up the sides using the bottom of a measuring cup.
• Refrigerate or freeze while preparing the cheesecake filling.

Cheesecake Filling

• Pour lemon Jell-O gelatin mix into 1 cup of very hot water and stir until dissolved. Set aside to cool.
• Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
• Add sour cream and mix well.
• Stir in vanilla extract.
• Gradually pour the cooled Jell-O mixture into the cream cheese mixture, starting slowly to avoid splashing.
• Mix thoroughly until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer.
• Gently fold whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture until smooth.
• Fold in lemon zest if desired.
• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust.
• Refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight to set.
• Optional: Top with whipped cream before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Slice with a sharp knife for clean pieces.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Garnish with fresh berries or extra lemon zest for a decorative touch.
• Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

Variations

• Berry Lemon Cheesecake: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or blueberries between crust and filling.
• Lime Cheesecake: Substitute lemon Jell-O with lime flavor for a tangy twist.
• Orange Cheesecake: Use orange Jell-O for a sweet citrus variation.
• Cookie Crust: Replace graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
• Mascarpone Cheesecake: Mix in a small amount of mascarpone cheese for extra creaminess.
• Whipped Topping: Replace some heavy cream with whipped topping for a lighter texture.
• Layered Cheesecake: Add a layer of fruit preserves on top of the crust before adding the filling.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Make in cupcake liners for individual servings.
• Tart Variation: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a more pronounced citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. How long should the cheesecake chill? At least six hours, preferably overnight.
2. Can I make it ahead? Yes, it can be made a day in advance.
3. Can I substitute Jell-O flavors? Yes, lime, orange, or other fruit flavors work.
4. Can I freeze this cheesecake? Freezing is possible, but texture may slightly change.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, but the cheesecake will be less creamy.
6. Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream? Heavy cream is recommended for best texture.
7. How can I prevent a soggy crust? Firmly pack the crust and chill before adding filling.
8. Can I double the recipe? Yes, but use a larger pan and extend chilling time.
9. How should I serve it? Slice chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or berries.
10. Can I garnish it with fruit? Fresh berries or citrus slices pair perfectly with this cheesecake.

No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake is the ultimate summer dessert—light, creamy, and bursting with refreshing citrus flavor. It’s easy to make, requires no oven, and is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying a cool treat on a warm day. With its buttery graham cracker crust and smooth lemon cream cheese filling, this cheesecake is sure to impress everyone. Its versatility allows for creative variations, from berry layers to different citrus flavors, making it a dessert you can enjoy again and again. Serve chilled, garnish as desired, and savor every creamy, tangy bite.

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