When the temperature starts to heat up, the last thing that I want to do is turn on the oven and bake something. But that doesn’t mean that I don’t want to eat dessert. So, I keep a few no-bake recipes in my back pocket for when I need something sweet to bring to a summer party or BBQ.
My cheesecake filling is creamy and decadent, and can be used in so many different ways. For this particular dessert, I kept it classic with graham cracker crumbs and berries. You could use chocolate crumbs, sugar cookies, gingersnaps, whatever you like. As for fruit, you can use whatever is in season, or looks good at the store. I make these earlier in the day and let them set up in the fridge.
They keep for a 2 to 3 days, but I would add the fruit the day I was going to serve them. To make the presentation prettier, I add the filling to a piping bag and use it to fill the glasses. It keeps the sides of the glass clean and makes for a beautiful finished product.
NO BAKE CHEESECAKE
1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
4 Tablespoons melted butter
3 Tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoons cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
1 (14-ounce) sweetened condensed milk
Zest of one lemon
1/2 vanilla bean, seeded and scraped
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups berries (I used raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries)
2 Tablespoons sugar
Zest from one lemon
Whipped cream (optional)
In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until combined and completely coated. Set aside.
Add the berries to a bowl. Add sugar and lemon zest. Gently toss to combine. Let sit for one hour.
In the bowl of an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add the condensed milk slowly, and scrape down the sides. Add lemon zest, vanilla bean, lemon juice, and vanilla.
To assemble, add a layer of graham cracker crumbs, a layer of cheesecake filling, and a layer of berries. Repeat until your glass is full. If you like, add a little whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
About the Author
Bree Hester is the blogger, photographer, and videographer behind BakedBree.com. Baked Bree is a place where you will find great recipes and inspiration for your next family adventure. Follow along with all of her adventures on Instagram @BreeHester