Description
A rich and velvety no-bake cheesecake featuring real vanilla bean seeds for a homemade flavor, perfect for make-ahead desserts without using an oven.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (150g)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (85g)
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (450g)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- 1 whole vanilla bean, seeds scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
- Optional: fresh berries, fruit preserves, or 1 teaspoon espresso powder
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until crumbs are evenly coated and feel like wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of an 8 or 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the fridge.
- Beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape sides to remove lumps.
- Add sugar and lemon juice to the cream cheese and beat for another 2 minutes until velvety and glossy.
- Slice vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape seeds into the cream cheese mixture (or add vanilla extract). Beat briefly to combine.
- Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully to keep it airy.
- Pour filling over chilled crust and smooth the top. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, run a thin knife around the pan edge, unlock the springform, and slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean edges. Serve plain or topped with fresh berries, honey, or powdered sugar.
Notes
Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Whip heavy cream to soft peaks only to maintain a fluffy texture. Press crust firmly to prevent sogginess. Chill overnight for best texture. Vanilla bean seeds add superior flavor, but vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of chee
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 215
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 17
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, vanilla bean cheesecake, easy dessert, creamy cheesecake, homemade cheesecake, no oven dessert