Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake (No Bake Cheesecake)

Short Description

This Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake is a delightful no-bake dessert that features a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a glossy layer of strawberry jelly. With fresh strawberries and a light, fruity topping, it offers a refreshing finish to any meal without the need for baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No oven required – perfect for summer or when you want an easy dessert without heating up the kitchen.
• Elegant appearance – the clear jelly with suspended strawberries gives a stunning presentation.
• Great texture – the contrast between the crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake, and soft jelly creates a pleasing bite.
• Make-ahead friendly – ideal for dinner parties or special occasions since it needs to chill.
• Customizable – easy to swap out the fruit or jelly to suit the season or your taste.
• Kid-friendly – a sweet treat that appeals to all ages.
• Cool and refreshing – lighter than traditional baked cheesecakes.
• Balanced flavor – the tanginess of the cheesecake complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
• No special tools needed – made with common kitchen equipment.
• Impressive but simple – it looks sophisticated but is easy to assemble.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Light brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Sour cream
• Powdered sugar
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy whipping cream
• Fresh strawberries
• Gelatin powder
• Cold water
• Additional granulated sugar
• Additional lemon juice
• Water

Directions

1. Prepare the pan: Line the bottom and sides of a 6-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add melted butter and combine. Press into the pan and chill in the refrigerator.
3. Make the cheesecake filling:
   • Beat cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
   • Add sour cream, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
   • Pour over the chilled crust and level the top. Refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
4. Prepare the strawberry jelly layer:
   • Cook chopped strawberries with sugar and lemon juice until soft.
   • Strain to remove solids and keep the liquid.
   • Bloom gelatin in cold water, then add to the warm strawberry liquid and stir to dissolve.
   • Allow to cool slightly, then pour gently over the cheesecake. Chill until set.
5. Make the lemon jelly layer:
   • Combine water, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves.
   • Bloom gelatin in water, then stir into the warm mixture until fully dissolved.
   • Arrange sliced strawberries over the set strawberry layer.
   • Carefully pour the lemon jelly on top and refrigerate until fully set (preferably overnight).
6. Serve: Once set, remove from the pan, peel away parchment, and transfer to a serving dish. Slice with a hot, clean knife.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 to 8 slices
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: About 3 hours for individual layers, plus at least 12 hours to fully set
• Total time: Approximately 15 hours, mostly inactive

Variations

• Crust alternatives: Try Oreo crumbs, digestive biscuits, or gingersnaps for a twist.
• Fruit substitutes: Use raspberries, blueberries, or peaches in place of strawberries.
• Flavored gelatin: Add strawberry or raspberry flavored gelatin instead of homemade jelly.
• Chocolate touch: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate on top of the crust before the filling.
• Mini cheesecakes: Use muffin tins with liners to make individual portions.
• Citrus swap: Replace lemon juice with lime or orange for a different flavor profile.
• Sweetener changes: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
• Spiced crust: Add nutmeg or ginger to the crust mix for extra warmth.
• Cream cheese mix-ins: Fold in white chocolate chips or fruit preserves.
• Topping options: Garnish with whipped cream or mint for an elegant finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without the jelly layer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding jelly.
• Avoid reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

What type of gelatin should I use?

Use unflavored powdered gelatin for best results. Ensure it’s fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the jelly layers.

Can I use store-bought jelly?

Yes, you can substitute homemade jelly with store-bought strawberry or lemon gelatin for convenience.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing?

Ensure each layer is completely set before pouring the next one. Pour gently using a spoon to break the fall.

What’s the best cream cheese to use?

Full-fat block cream cheese is ideal for a rich and firm texture. Avoid whipped or spreadable versions.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes, it can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the fridge until serving.

How do I slice the cheesecake neatly?

Use a hot, sharp knife. Wipe clean between each cut for perfect slices.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before use. Fresh strawberries yield the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep cake pan lined with parchment, but it will be harder to unmold cleanly.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and whipping cream. Use plant-based butter for the crust.

How long does it take for the jelly to set?

Each jelly layer typically takes 1–2 hours to set in the fridge, depending on thickness and fridge temperature.

Conclusion

Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake is a no-bake masterpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With a rich yet light texture and eye-catching layers, it’s the perfect dessert for warm weather, celebrations, or simply indulging at home. This recipe offers flexibility, elegance, and ease—making it a must-have in your dessert repertoire.

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