This no-bake raspberry cheesecake features a rich, creamy filling on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a vibrant raspberry sauce and fresh raspberries. Quick and easy to make, it’s a perfect dessert without the need for baking.
Indulge in the creamy decadence of a perfect no-bake raspberry cheesecake that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh raspberries with the smooth richness of cream cheese. This No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake recipe requires zero oven time, making it the perfect dessert for warm summer days or when you’re craving something sweet without the hassle of baking.
Total Time: 45 minutes preparation + 6 hours chilling | Servings: 12 slices | Difficulty: Easy
Why No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Deserves a Spot in Your Dessert Repertoire
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to create elaborate desserts can be challenging. That’s where the beauty of a no-bake cheesecake shines. This raspberry cheesecake without baking combines simplicity with elegance, allowing you to create a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this no-bake raspberry delight promises to impress.
The French-inspired No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake brings together the best of both worlds: the sophisticated flavor profile of a traditional cheesecake with the convenience of a no-bake preparation method. Let’s dive into what makes this dessert so special and how you can create it in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare up to 2 days in advance for stress-free entertaining
The Perfect Balance of Flavors in No-Bake Raspberry Desserts
What makes this No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake truly exceptional is the harmonious balance between the creamy cheesecake filling and the bright, tangy raspberry topping. Unlike baked versions, this no-bake raspberry cheesecake maintains a lighter, more refreshing profile that’s perfect for serving after a hearty meal or as a cool treat on warm days.
The raspberry component adds not only vibrant color but also a natural sweetness that complements the subtle tanginess of the cream cheese. This creates a multi-dimensional flavor experience that’s both sophisticated and approachable.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal</td> | 21% |
| Total Fat | 28g | 36% |
| Saturated Fat | 16g | 80%</td> |
| Cholesterol | 85mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 320mg | 14% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g | 13% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Total Sugars | 25g | 50% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 75mg | 6% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate.
Ingredient List & Shopping Guide
1.The Graham Cracker Crust
- 250g (2½ cups) graham cracker crumbs – or digestive biscuits for a British twist
- 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt – enhances all the flavors
2.The Creamy Cheesecake Filling
- 600g (21 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 300ml (1¼ cups) heavy whipping cream (min. 35% fat), cold
- 15g (1½ tbsp) powdered gelatin
- 60ml (¼ cup) cold water – for blooming gelatin
3.The Raspberry Topping & Garnish
- 300g (2 cups) fresh raspberries (plus extra for decoration)
- 75g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 7g (2¼ tsp) powdered gelatin
- 3 tbsp cold water – for blooming gelatin
- Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pro Tips
1: Preparing the Perfect Crust
- Prepare Pan: Line the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the sides. This ensures easy removal later.
- Make Crumbs: Place graham crackers or digestive biscuits in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. No food processor? Place in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to create a compact, level layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling. This helps prevent a soggy crust.
2: Creating the Silky-Smooth Filling
- Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle 15g gelatin over 60ml cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy (this is “blooming”).
- Dissolve Gelatin: Microwave the bloomed gelatin for 10-15 seconds until completely liquid, OR heat gently in a small saucepan. Set aside to cool slightly but not solidify.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and 200g sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and lump-free. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add Flavorings: Beat in the vanilla extract and lemon juice until just combined.
- Incorporate Gelatin: With the mixer on low speed, slowly drizzle in the slightly cooled liquid gelatin until fully incorporated.
- Whip Cream: In a separate, clean bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Be careful not to overwhip into butter.
- Fold Together: Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions. Fold until no white streaks remain, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Assemble: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Set First Layer: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm enough to support the topping without sinking.
3: Making the Vibrant Raspberry Layer
- Bloom More Gelatin: Sprinkle 7g gelatin over 3 tbsp cold water in a small bowl. Let bloom for 5 minutes.
- Cook Raspberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine 250g of the raspberries (reserve 50g for garnish), 75g sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, mashing the berries with a spoon until they break down and the sugar dissolves.
- Strain: Remove from heat and immediately strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid and pulp while leaving seeds behind. Discard the seeds.
- Add Gelatin: Stir the bloomed gelatin into the hot raspberry sauce until completely dissolved.
- Cool: Let the raspberry mixture cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally. It should be slightly thickened but still pourable (about 20-30 minutes).
- Decorate & Top: Arrange the reserved fresh raspberries on top of the set cheesecake layer. Slowly pour the cooled raspberry sauce over the berries, guiding it with the back of a spoon to cover them evenly and prevent creating divots in the filling.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to set completely.
How to Serve & Slice Perfectly
- Unmold: Run a thin, hot knife around the edge of the springform pan before releasing the clamp. Carefully lift off the ring.
- Transfer: Slide a large spatula or cake lifter under the parchment paper to transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
- Clean Slices: For picture-perfect slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
- Garnish: Just before serving, garnish with additional fresh raspberries, mint leaves, and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Cheesecake Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too soft? Add additional gelatin next time (1 extra teaspoon)
- Not setting properly? Ensure proper refrigeration time and temperature
- Crust too crumbly? Add a bit more melted butter to help it bind
- Topping too runny? Allow it to cool more before pouring over the cheesecake
Serving Suggestions
This No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that can be presented in multiple ways:
- Slice into elegant wedges and serve on chilled dessert plates
- Create individual mini cheesecakes in glass jars for a modern presentation
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for extra visual appeal
- Pair with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat
- Garnish with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, and a light drizzle of raspberry coulis
The beauty of this no-bake raspberry cheesecake lies in its versatility. It can be prepared up to two days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining or when you want to plan ahead.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar in both filling and topping by 25%, adding a touch of stevia or monk fruit sweetener to taste.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream (the thick part from a can of full-fat coconut milk).
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace gelatin with agar-agar powder, using about ¾ of the amount (as it sets firmer).
Frequently Asked Questions About No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries for This Cheesecake Framboise Sans Cuisson?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well for the topping. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using. For the decorative raspberries on top, fresh is still preferable for the best visual appeal and texture.
How Long Does No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake Last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this no-bake raspberry cheesecake will maintain its quality for up to 5 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the refrigerator and to maintain its moisture.
Can I Freeze This No-Bake Cheesecake?
Absolutely! This Cheesecake Framboise Sans Cuisson freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Gelatin in This Recipe?
For vegetarian options, agar-agar powder can be used as a 1:1 substitute for gelatin. Keep in mind that agar sets more firmly than gelatin, so you might want to use slightly less (about ¾ of the amount called for in the recipe).
Why Did My Cheesecake Not Set Properly?
There are several potential reasons:
- The gelatin wasn’t properly bloomed or dissolved
- The cheesecake didn’t chill long enough
- The ratio of liquid to gelatin was off
- The cream wasn’t whipped to stiff peaks before folding in
If you enjoyed this recipe, I invite you to Discover more easy no‑bake desserts.
Can I Make Individual Raspberry Cheesecakes Instead of One Large One?
Certainly! This recipe works wonderfully in individual ramekins, mason jars, or glasses. Adjust the chilling time to about 3-4 hours for smaller portions.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Smooth Topping?
For a professional-looking finish, pour the raspberry topping over the back of a spoon onto the cheesecake to prevent it from creating a divot in the soft cheesecake layer.
What’s the Secret to a Perfect No-Bake Cheesecake Texture?
The key is properly whipped cream and the right amount of gelatin. Too little gelatin and the cheesecake won’t hold its shape; too much and it becomes rubbery. The recipe proportions have been tested to provide the perfect balance.
Variations & Creative Twists
- Mixed Berry Cheesecake: Replace half the raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
- Lemon-Raspberry: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the filling for a brighter citrus note.
- Chocolate Crust: Substitute 50g of the graham crumbs with chocolate cookie crumbs.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Melt 50g white chocolate and drizzle over the set raspberry layer before serving.
- Adult Version: Add 1 tbsp of Chambord (raspberry liqueur) to the raspberry sauce.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake represents the perfect balance of convenience and sophistication. By eliminating the need for baking while maintaining the luxurious texture and flavor of a traditional cheesecake, this recipe offers a stress-free approach to creating a stunning dessert.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a quick alternative or a novice in the kitchen seeking a foolproof recipe, this no-bake raspberry cheesecake delivers consistent results with minimal effort. The vibrant color contrast between the creamy white filling and the ruby-red raspberry topping creates a visual masterpiece that’s sure to impress any audience.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet or need a reliable dessert for a special occasion, turn to this No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake recipe. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary – no oven required.
Ready to make it? Save this recipe, gather your ingredients, and prepare to receive compliments on your beautiful, delicious creation!
Comments are closed.