If you’re looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together without heating up your kitchen, this No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of velvety cream cheese tinted in classic holiday red, white, and green sit atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a show-stopping treat that’s as delightful to behold as it is to eat. This no-fuss cheesecake brims with holiday cheer and creamy richness, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe plays a starring role in delivering that perfect blend of texture and flavor. From the crisp graham cracker crust to the smooth, colorful cheesecake layers and the sweet frosting topping, these simple components come together to create a magical dessert.
- Graham crackers (2 sleeves, crushed): Provides the classic crunchy base with a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that perfectly supports the creamy layers.
- Butter (1 stick, melted): Binds the cracker crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
- Sugar (1 Tablespoon for crust & 1 cup for filling): Sweetens both the crust and cheesecake filling to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- Cream Cheese (4 packages, softened): The heart of the cheesecake, delivering that smooth, creamy, and tangy texture everyone loves.
- Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and lightens the cheesecake’s texture for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (1/4 cup): Helps achieve a luscious, airy consistency in the filling.
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Keeps the filling sweet and silky without any graininess.
- Vanilla Extract (1 Tablespoon): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic note.
- Vanilla Coffee Creamer (1 Tablespoon): Adds a subtle, creamy depth with a hint of indulgence.
- Red and Green Food Coloring Gel: Transform the layers into a vibrant Christmas celebration.
- Christmas Mix Sprinkles: Fun, festive decoration that adds a playful crunch to the finished cheesecake.
- Betty Crocker Vanilla Frosting (1 container): Creates an inviting decorative edge that’s sweet and smooth.
How to Make No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Graham Cracker Crust
Start by pulsing the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix those crumbs with sugar, then pour in the melted butter and stir until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9-inch springform pan. Pop the crust into the freezer—this quick chill is essential for a firm, sturdy base that holds up the vibrant cheesecake layers.
Step 2: Blend Your Creamy Cheesecake Filling
In your stand mixer’s bowl, blend softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt on medium speed until smooth. Next, add sugar, vanilla extract, and vanilla coffee creamer, stirring until everything becomes velvety smooth. Gradually mix in heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar, alternating between the two to maintain a fluffy texture. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides occasionally for a perfectly even batter.
Step 3: Divide and Color the Batter
Here’s where the magic really happens! Split the cheesecake batter into three portions. Set one third in the refrigerator as your white middle layer. Add green food coloring gel drop by drop to one portion until you reach a rich, festive green shade, then refrigerate that. For the final third, stir in red food coloring gel a little at a time—be patient as it takes quite a few drops to achieve that deep holiday red.
Step 4: Layer and Freeze the Cheesecake
Remove your crust-lined pan from the freezer and pour in the red cheesecake layer first. Freeze for 4 hours to let it set completely. After that, gently pour the white layer on top of the hardened red base and freeze again for 3 hours. Finally, add the green cheesecake layer and freeze the entire cake overnight. This patient layering results in stunning, distinct colors that feel truly festive.
Step 5: Prepare for Serving
If you’re making this cheesecake ahead of time, cover it with parchment paper and foil after it’s fully frozen to prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for a few days before your celebration.
Step 6: Decorate and Enjoy
When ready to serve, carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Pipe dollops of vanilla frosting around the edges in two rows for a classic holiday look. Sprinkle your Christmas mix sprinkles generously on top of the frosting and cake, adding that whimsical sparkle and extra crunch that screams festive fun. Slice into 2-inch pieces and bask in the compliments as everyone enjoys this luscious No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe.
How to Serve No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the vanilla frosting and sprinkles, consider adding fresh raspberries, pomegranate seeds, or mint leaves on top to bring extra color and a burst of fresh flavor. These garnishes pair perfectly with this cheesecake’s rich creaminess and boost its holiday appeal.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines beautifully on its own, but you can complement it with light, refreshing sides like a citrus salad or even a hot cup of spiced apple cider. The contrast between the creamy cheesecake and crisp, tangy sides creates an unforgettable taste experience during your holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, serve individual slices on festive plates accented with edible gold flakes or dustings of powdered sugar. You could also cut the cheesecake into mini squares and place them in clear holiday-themed cupcake wrappers for a fun, party-friendly serving option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy this No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe even after the festivities wind down.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully! After assembling, keep it wrapped with parchment and foil and store in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended—it’s best enjoyed chilled. If you prefer it slightly softer, let slices sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt is preferred for its thicker texture and tanginess, which contribute to the cheesecake’s creamy consistency and balanced flavor.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier, but you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper on the bottom and sides to help lift it out. Just be very gentle when unmolding.
How do I achieve those vibrant red and green colors?
The secret is food coloring gel—it’s more concentrated than liquid coloring, which prevents altering the cheesecake’s texture. Add it slowly and mix thoroughly until you reach your desired festive shades.
Can I add other flavors to this cheesecake?
Absolutely! You could incorporate peppermint extract for a minty twist or swirl in crushed candy canes for a bit of crunch. Just be mindful of how additional flavors might affect the overall texture and freezing time.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely! This No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe is fantastic for home cooks at any level—it doesn’t require baking, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for holiday baking newbies or anyone pressed for time.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe enough for your holiday table. Its colorful layers, creamy texture, and festive decorations will bring a glow of joy to your celebrations. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make yet feels special enough to wow your guests. So go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be making this delightful cheesecake a yearly tradition in no time!
Print
No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes (including freezing time)
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive no-bake Christmas cheesecake featuring layers of colorful cream cheese batter in red, white, and green, set on a crunchy graham cracker crust. This dessert combines creamy textures with vibrant holiday colors and is topped with vanilla frosting and Christmas sprinkles, making it perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 sleeves of graham crackers, crushed
- 1 stick of butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 packages (8-ounce each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon vanilla coffee creamer
- Red food coloring gel (to taste)
- Green food coloring gel (to taste)
Topping
- 1 container Betty Crocker vanilla frosting
- Christmas mix sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and stir well. Pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly to coat the crumbs. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, then press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Place the crust in the freezer to set.
- Make the cheesecake batter: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Mix on medium speed until smooth and blended. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and vanilla coffee creamer; blend until combined. Scrape down the bowl sides. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream alternately in thirds, mixing on low speed after each addition until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Divide and color the batter: Divide the cheesecake batter into three portions. Leave one-third white in the mixing bowl and refrigerate it. Transfer one third to another bowl and add green food coloring gel a few drops at a time until the desired green shade is achieved, then refrigerate. In the original mixing bowl, add red food coloring gel about 10 drops at a time until a deep red color is reached; this requires a generous amount of coloring.
- Layer and freeze the cheesecake: Remove the crusted pan from the freezer and pour the red cheesecake layer over the crust. Freeze for 4 hours until firm. Next, pour the white cheesecake layer on top of the red layer and return to the freezer for 3 hours. Finally, pour the green cheesecake layer on top of the white layer and freeze overnight to set completely.
- Advance preparation: If preparing the cheesecake ahead of time, after it has frozen overnight, cover the top tightly with parchment paper and foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Decorate and serve: When ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the freezer and release it from the springform pan. Place the vanilla frosting in a pastry bag fitted with a large fluted tip and pipe dollops of frosting around the edge of the cheesecake in two rows. Sprinkle the Christmas mix sprinkles over the frosting and on top of the cheesecake. Cut into 2-inch slices, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- This cheesecake must be stored in the freezer to maintain its shape and texture.
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without thinning the batter.
- Be patient with the layering process to achieve distinct red, white, and green layers.
- Allow the cheesecake to soften slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- Vanilla coffee creamer adds a subtle flavor; it can be omitted or substituted if preferred.
