Easy No Bake Mini Cheesecakes: Perfect Individual Desserts for Any Occasion

Indulge in the simplest pleasure with these rich and creamy No Bake Mini Cheesecakes. Perfectly portioned and effortlessly elegant, these individual cheesecakes boast a delightful buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious, airy filling. Crafted easily in a muffin pan without the need for an oven or Cool Whip, they are the ideal dessert for warm weather gatherings. Serve these delightful cheesecake bites with a vibrant medley of fresh strawberries and blueberries for a classic red, white, and blue treat that’s simply irresistible.

Summer often brings a unique set of challenges and busy schedules, making the idea of turning on a hot oven less than appealing. Whether it’s the peak of a busy season or simply a desire for something light and refreshing, a simple, delicious dessert can be a true lifesaver.

That’s precisely why these No Bake Mini Cheesecakes are a revelation. They offer all the creamy satisfaction of a traditional cheesecake without any of the fuss, making them the perfect antidote to a demanding day or a sweltering afternoon.

Following the tremendous success of our popular Mini Cheesecakes, we decided to craft a no-bake version that captures all the convenience and charm, perfectly suited for summertime enjoyment. These delightful mini desserts feature a rich, whipped cream and cream cheese filling nestled in crisp graham cracker crusts, ready to be adorned with your favorite toppings like strawberry sauce and fresh blueberries.

Much like our beloved No Bake Cheesecake Cups, these individual treats are a fantastic small-batch dessert solution. They’re tailor-made for those moments when the last thing you want to do is fire up your oven, offering a cool, refreshing escape in every bite.

Why You’ll Love These No Bake Mini Cheesecakes

These mini cheesecakes aren’t just easy to make; they’re incredibly versatile and a crowd-pleaser for many reasons:

• No Baking Required: Keep your kitchen cool, especially during hot summer months.
• Individual Portions: Perfect for parties, picnics, or portion control. No need for slicing!
• Quick to Prepare: The active prep time is minimal, leaving mostly chill time for the fridge.
• Customizable: Easily switch up crusts and toppings to suit any preference or occasion.
• Rich & Creamy Texture: Despite being no-bake, the filling is wonderfully smooth and luxurious.
• Visually Appealing: These charming little desserts always impress guests with their elegant presentation.

Ingredients for Perfect No Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Ready to whip up this irresistible no-bake mini cheesecake recipe? Here’s a detailed look at the simple ingredients you’ll need and why each one is important for achieving that perfect texture and flavor:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: The classic choice for a cheesecake crust, offering a delightful crunchy base and a slightly honeyed flavor. For a different twist, you can easily substitute with crushed Oreo cookies or even digestive biscuits for an alternative flavor profile. If using a food processor, pulse until fine crumbs form.
• Butter (Melted): Essential for binding the crust ingredients together, ensuring it holds its shape and provides a rich, buttery foundation. Unsalted butter is generally preferred to control the overall saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar (for crust): Adds a subtle sweetness to the graham cracker crust, complementing the tangy cheesecake filling. If you opt for an Oreo crust, you can omit this sugar as Oreos are already sweet.
• Salt (Pinch): A tiny amount of salt in the crust helps to balance and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients, preventing it from tasting flat.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (Cold): This is a crucial component for the no-bake filling. When whipped, it creates homemade whipped cream, which provides the necessary lightness, thickness, and stability to the cheesecake, replacing the role of eggs and baking in traditional recipes. Ensure it’s very cold for optimal whipping.
• Cream Cheese (Full-Fat, Room Temperature): The star of any cheesecake! Using a block of full-fat cream cheese is vital. Low-fat or fat-free versions contain more water, which can lead to a watery, less stable, and less creamy filling. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
• Powdered Sugar (Sifted): Sweetens the cream cheese filling, balancing the cream cheese’s tang. Sifting is important to prevent lumps and ensure a silky-smooth texture in your no-bake mixture. It also helps to stabilize the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth to the cheesecake batter. Good quality vanilla makes a noticeable difference.

No muffin pan? No problem! This versatile no-bake filling can be adapted for various presentations. Consider making no bake cheesecake bars in a square pan, an 8×8 no bake Biscoff cheesecake, or simply spoon the no-bake filling into jars for a charming “cheesecake in a jar” dessert, similar to my baked cheesecake in a jar concept.

How To Make These Easy Mini No Bake Cheesecakes

Creating these delightful mini cheesecakes is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. This ensures a cohesive crust.

2. Form the Crusts: Line a standard muffin pan with 6 paper liners. Evenly distribute the graham cracker mixture, pressing roughly 2 tablespoons of crumbs firmly into the bottom of each liner to form a compact crust. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to get them really firm. Place the muffin pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to allow the crusts to set.

3. Make Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl (ideally chilled, or using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment), beat the cold heavy cream on high speed. Continue beating until it thickens and stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beater, the peaks will stand upright without collapsing. Transfer the whipped cream to a separate bowl and keep it chilled in the fridge while you work on the cream cheese mixture.

4. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In the same mixing bowl used for the whipped cream (no need to wash it!), beat together the softened full-fat cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for the best results.

5. Combine Fillings: Gently scrape down the sides of the bowl. Then, carefully fold in the reserved whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Use a light hand to preserve the airiness of the whipped cream, folding until no white streaks of whipped cream remain and the mixture is uniformly combined. For a visual guide, learn how to properly fold whipped cream from The Kitchn.

6. Fill and Chill: Divide the creamy cheesecake filling evenly among the prepared mini graham cracker crusts in the muffin pan. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a cleaner finish. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula. Place the muffin pan back into the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the cheesecakes are firm and fully set. This chilling time is essential for the structure and texture of your no-bake desserts.

7. Serve & Enjoy: Once firm, carefully remove the mini cheesecakes from the muffin pan. Peel off the paper liners, top with your favorite garnishes, and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness!

Need to feed a larger crowd? Consider preparing my No Bake Blueberry Cheesecake instead, which makes a full-sized pie!

Toppings For No Bake Mini Cheesecakes: Elevate Your Dessert!

One of the most exciting aspects of these mini no-bake cheesecakes is the endless possibilities for toppings! They provide a fantastic canvas for your creativity, allowing you to customize each bite. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Fresh Berries: As pictured, a mix of fresh strawberries and blueberries creates a stunning and delicious red, white, and blue theme, perfect for summer holidays. Raspberries and blackberries are also excellent choices.
• Fruit Sauces & Jams: In addition to my homemade strawberry sauce, you can use homemade strawberry jam without pectin or blueberry jam without pectin for a burst of concentrated fruit flavor.
• Pie Fillings: If you love the rich texture of pie filling, try my strawberry pie filling, blueberry pie filling, cherry pie filling, peach pie filling, or apple pie filling for a hearty topping.
• Fruit Curds: For a tangy and bright flavor, swirl in strawberry curd, creating a smaller, individual version of my popular strawberry swirl cheesecake. Lemon or lime curd would also be delightful.
• Chocolate & Caramel: Not a fruit fan? Drizzle with luscious homemade caramel sauce or a decadent chocolate ganache using my ganache recipe.
• Whipped Cream & Sprinkles: A dollop of extra whipped cream and some colorful sprinkles can make these cheesecakes extra festive, especially for birthdays or celebrations.
• Nuts & Toffee Bits: For added texture and crunch, sprinkle with chopped toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts) or crushed toffee bits.

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Achieving the perfect no-bake cheesecake is simple with a few key tips:

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is critical! Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy filling. Let your cream cheese sit out for at least 30-60 minutes before mixing.
• Cold Heavy Cream: For whipped cream to form stiff peaks, the heavy cream must be very cold. You can even chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment for 10-15 minutes beforehand.
• Don’t Overmix the Whipped Cream: Once stiff peaks form, stop beating. Over-whipping can turn the cream grainy.
• Gentle Folding: When combining the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture, fold gently. This preserves the airiness of the whipped cream, which is what gives the no-bake cheesecake its light texture.
• Firmly Pressed Crust: A well-packed crust ensures it won’t crumble when you remove the cheesecakes from the liners.
• Adequate Chill Time: Do not skimp on the chilling! Four hours is the minimum, but overnight is ideal for the cheesecakes to fully firm up and for the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Easy Removal: Using paper liners is key for easy removal from the muffin pan without damaging the cheesecakes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

These mini cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead and storing:

• Storage: Store leftover no-bake mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. It’s best to add toppings just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation.
• Make-Ahead: You can easily prepare these cheesecakes a day or two in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, uncovered for the first hour (to prevent condensation), then covered loosely until ready to serve.
• Freezing: While not explicitly recommended in the original recipe, no-bake cheesecakes can often be frozen. For best results, freeze them without toppings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture might be slightly softer after thawing.

More Cheesecake Recipes You’ll Love

Enjoyed this incredibly easy and delicious mini no bake cheesecake recipe? If you’re a cheesecake enthusiast, be sure to explore more of our fantastic small batch cheesecake recipes and other delightful variations, including:

• Classic 4 Inch Cheesecake
• Perfect 6 Inch Cheesecake
• Decadent Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes
• Seasonal Mini Pumpkin Oreo Cheesecakes
• Festive Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

No Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Yield:
6 mini cheesecakes

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Chill Time:
4 hours

Total Time:
4 hours 20 minutes

These No Bake Mini Cheesecakes are individual creamy desserts with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion. Serve them with fresh strawberries and blueberries for a vibrant, easy treat.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• Pinch of table salt
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 4 ounces (1/2 block) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature and not cold to the touch (do not sub fat free)
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Strawberry sauce and blueberries, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Line a muffin pan with 6 paper liners. Press roughly 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of each paper liner to form a crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl (using a whisk attachment if with a stand mixer), beat the very cold heavy cream on high speed until it thickens and stiff peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Transfer the whipped cream to another bowl and keep it chilled in the refrigerator.
4. In the same mixing bowl (no need to clean; switch to a paddle attachment if using a stand mixer), beat together the room temperature cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Scrape down the bowl. Gently fold in the chilled whipped cream until no white streaks remain and the filling is uniform and airy.
6. Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the prepared graham cracker crusts in the paper liners. Smooth the tops with a spoon or small offset spatula. Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, until firm and set. Serve chilled with fresh strawberry sauce and blueberries.

   Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

Notes

• Loved this recipe? You might also enjoy my No Bake Cheesecake Cups, No Bake Cheesecake Bars, and No Bake Biscoff Cheesecake for more no-bake inspiration.
• If you prefer baked cheesecakes, check out my classic Mini Cheesecakes recipe.
• Looking for more individual cheesecake ideas? Explore my full collection of Mini Cheesecake Recipes.

Recommended Products

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• Cupcake Pan
• Paper Liners

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First published August 19, 2022