For summer parties or those looking for great appetizers, the Chill And Thrill Cream Pie is the best of them all. Best of all, this no-bake cheesecake recipe doesn’t require an oven, and all the instructions are explained in simple terms.
Table of Contents
Chill and Thrill Cream Pie : No-Bake Cheesecake
If you don’t want to turn on your oven and prefer a creamy, rich dessert without the oven, this no-bake cheesecake is sure to become your new favorite.
It’s velvety, smooth, slightly tangy, and perfectly sweet. This cheesecake delivers all the fun of a classic baked version without the stress. This recipe is beginner-friendly, as it uses pantry ingredients and is ideal for summer parties, potlucks, holidays, or as a dessert to make in advance.
It sets perfectly in the refrigerator—no water bath, no cracking, and no baking drama.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a no-bake cheesecake at home, along with some expert tips, topping ideas, storage suggestions, and finally, answers to questions you might have. Let’s get started.
What makes a Chill and Thrill Cream Pie so great:
- Perfect to make in advance
- No oven required
- Stable, creamy, great slicing texture
- Easy to customize with toppings and flavors
- American-style dessert that’s loved by all ages.
All the ingredients for a no-bake cheesecake:
Ingredients for the crust:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, about 14 to 16 crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Alternative Ingredients:
- Oreo cookies (without cream)
- Digestive biscuits
- Vanilla wafers
Ingredients for Cheesecake Filling:
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar, confectioners’ sugar
- 2 16oz blocks of full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
Optional Topping Ingredients:
- Chocolate Ganache
- Lemon Curd
- Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries
- Cherry Pie Filling
- Crushed Cookies
- Salted Caramel Sauce
All Items Needed:
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cup or Spoon
- 9-Inch Springform Pan
- Rubber Spatula
- Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer
Full Instructions on How to Make Chill and Thrill Cream Pie:
1. Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust
- Use a medium bowl.
- Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar and mix well.
- Add the melted butter and continue mixing until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Now press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Use the back of a spoon or a flat glass to press evenly.
- Tip: Press down the edges slightly for a bakery-style look. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling, about 25 to 30 minutes.
2. Whipping the Heavy Cream
- Use a chilled mixing bowl.
- Pour the heavy whipping cream into the bowl.
- Continue whipping on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The cream should hold its shape.
- Do not overbeat or it may become grainy.
- Then set aside in the refrigerator.
3. Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Use a large bowl.
- Add the softened cream cheese and beat until smooth and lump-free.
- Add:
- Vanilla extract
- Lemon juice
- Powdered sugar
- Then continue beating until creamy, silky, and well-combined.
Why is lemon juice important?
- It enhances the flavor and helps balance the sweetness of the cheesecake without making it too lemony.
4. Adding the Whipped Cream
- Use a spatula to add the whipped cream and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Now slowly fold in a circular motion.
- Be careful not to overmix.
- This step creates a light mousse-like texture, which makes this cheesecake a great no-bake cheesecake.
5. Assembling the Cheesecake:
- Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator. Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust and smooth it out.
- Smooth the top thoroughly with a spatula for a clean finish.
6. Setting and Chilling
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap.
- Be sure to refrigerate it for 6 hours.
- If not using, overnight will help it set better.
- The colder it is, the better it sets.
- Freezing at this stage is recommended.
7. Add toppings and serve
- Remove the springform ring once it’s completely set
- and add your desired toppings just before serving.
- Cut neatly with a clean, hot knife for a sharp edge.
Flavor Variations:
For a lemon no-bake cheesecake: Add lemon zest and more lemon juice for a bright citrus flavor.
For a strawberry no-bake cheesecake: Add strawberry puree to the filling or top with fresh strawberries.
For a chocolate no-bake cheesecake: Add 1/2 cup melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the filling and mix.
For an Oreo no-bake cheesecake: Add crushed Oreos to the filling and use an Oreo crust.
Some tips for a perfect no-bake cheesecake:
- Always use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
- Cream cheese should be kept at room temperature.
- Be sure to chill for a long time – freezing will soften the slices.
- Use powdered sugar, not granulated sugar.
- For maximum consistency, whip the cream separately.
Storage and Prep Tips:
- Covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze without topping for up to one month.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition per slice:
- Protein – 6g
- Fat – 30g
- Calories – 420
- Carbohydrate – 32g
FAQ
Answers to questions about the Chill and Thrill Cream Pie and mistakes to make it easy to make a no-bake cheesecake at home:
Q. Can I make a no-bake cheesecake without a springform pan?
Absolutely! Use a deep pie dish or square pan lined with parchment paper first.
Q. Why doesn’t a no-bake cheesecake set?
Reasons: insufficient whipped cream, warm cream cheese, or too little cooling time.
Q. Can I use low-fat?
Absolutely! But the texture is softer and less rich. Therefore, it is recommended to use full-fat.
Q. Can I add peanut butter or Nutella?
Yes! For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup to the cream cheese mixture.
Q. How long can a no-bake cheesecake last?
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Q. Is gelatin necessary for a no-bake cheesecake?
No! Using whipped cream and cream cheese in this recipe sets it up perfectly.
Final Thoughts
A chill and thrill cream pie, a no-bake cheesecake is a great dessert that doesn’t require an oven. It’s creamy, smooth, a firm favorite, and incredibly manageable.
This recipe is perfect for both new and experienced bakers.
If you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving a classic American dessert, this no-bake cheesecake will never disappoint. Make it this weekend or now.