Name: Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American / International
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 6 tbsp melted butter; 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for crust); 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for light tang); 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or thickened cream); Optional toppings: fresh berries or fruit, fruit compote or jam, shaved chocolate or crushed cookies, whipped cream

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Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab is the ultimate fuss-free dessert — creamy, cool, and irresistibly smooth with a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s perfect for serving a crowd, and I love how I can make it ahead of time without turning on the oven. Whether I top it with fresh fruit, jam, or leave it plain and classic, it’s always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet indulgent this cheesecake slab is. There’s no baking, no water bath, and no complicated steps — just mix, chill, and slice. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or any time I need a dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort. Plus, it slices beautifully and holds up well for serving. Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Granulated sugar (optional)

For the filling:

Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon juice (for a light tang)
Heavy whipping cream (or thickened cream)

Optional toppings:

Fresh berries or fruit
Fruit compote or jam
Shaved chocolate or crushed cookies
Whipped cream

Directions

I start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter (and sugar, if using) until it looks like wet sand.
I press the mixture evenly into a parchment-lined rectangular pan or baking dish, pressing firmly to form a crust. I chill it in the fridge while I prepare the filling.
In a large bowl, I beat the cream cheese until smooth. I add powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice and mix until creamy and lump-free.
In a separate bowl, I whip the cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
I spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
I cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.
Just before serving, I top it with fruit, jam, or anything I’m in the mood for. I slice into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12–16 squares, depending on size.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I stir melted white chocolate or a swirl of fruit compote into the filling. For a chocolate version, I use an Oreo crust and add cocoa powder to the cream cheese. I also switch out the graham crackers for digestive biscuits or shortbread crumbs when I want a twist on the base.

Storage/reheating

I store the cheesecake slab covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. It holds its shape well and stays creamy. I don’t freeze it often because the texture can change slightly, but it’s doable if I wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving. Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab

FAQs

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?

Yes, I’ve used it when I’m in a pinch. It makes the recipe even quicker and gives the filling a light, fluffy texture.

Can I make this in a round pan?

Absolutely. I use a springform pan if I want a classic round cheesecake look, though the slab version is easier for slicing and sharing.

Does it taste like baked cheesecake?

It has a lighter, mousse-like texture compared to a dense baked cheesecake, but all the creamy, tangy flavor is still there.

How do I keep the crust from crumbling?

I make sure to press it down very firmly and chill it while prepping the filling. Chilling helps it hold together beautifully.

What toppings go best with this?

I love using fresh strawberries, blueberries, or a dollop of lemon curd. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce is great too.

Conclusion

Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab is one of my favorite desserts when I need something simple, creamy, and crowd-pleasing. It’s rich but refreshing, easy to prep ahead, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m making it for a birthday, picnic, or just because — it never lasts long.