Name: Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Graham Cracker Crust:; ⅔ cup Graham cracker; 2 tbsp coconut oil; For Cheesecake:; 8 oz Low-Fat Cream Cheese; 1 cup low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt; ¼ cup honey; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; pinch of salt

Indulge in a delightful treat with this light no-bake cheesecake recipe that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. This easy-to-make dessert combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, and it's topped with your favorite fresh fruits or zests.

Photos of Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe

If you don't already have coconut oil in your pantry, you'll need to get some for the crust. Also, low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt and honey might not be staple items for everyone, so be sure to pick these up at the supermarket.

Ingredients For Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe

graham cracker: Provides the base for the crust, adding a crunchy texture and a sweet, slightly honeyed flavor.

coconut oil: Used to bind the graham cracker crumbs together, adding a slight tropical flavor.

low-fat cream cheese: Forms the base of the cheesecake filling, giving it a rich and creamy texture while keeping it lower in fat.

low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and a boost of protein to the cheesecake filling.

honey: Sweetens the cheesecake naturally, adding a floral undertone.

lemon juice: Adds brightness and a slight tang to balance the sweetness in the filling.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet and aromatic note.

salt: A small pinch is used to enhance all the other flavors and balance the sweetness.

One reader, Caralie Trinh says:

This light no bake cheesecake is a delightful treat! The creamy texture and hint of lemon make it refreshing, while the graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch. Easy to make and guilt-free, it's a must-try for any dessert lover!

Caralie Trinh

Techniques for Making Light No-Bake Cheesecake

Yes.

How to make graham cracker crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and coconut oil, then pack the mixture firmly into the bottom of each jar or serving dish. How to blend cheesecake mixture: Use a food processor to combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. How to set cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake mixture in jars or serving dishes for 2 to 3 hours until set.

How To Make Light No Bake Cheesecake

This cheesecake recipe is made lighter and healthier with the use of Greek yogurt and light cream cheese. It’s still full of the classic cheesecake flavors!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Graham Cracker Crust:

⅔cupgraham cracker,crumbs
2tbspcoconut oil,or butter, melted

For Cheesecake:

8ozlow-fat cream cheese,(2 packages)
1cuplow-fat vanilla Greek yogurt,must be strained if watery
¼cuphoney
2tbsplemon juice
1tbspvanilla extract
pinch of salt

Instructions

Stir graham cracker crumbs and oil/butter together until combined. Add 2 loosely-packed tablespoons of crust to the bottom of each jar or serving dish, and use fingers or a spoon to pack it down firmly.
Add all ingredients to a food processor, and pulse to combine, scraping the edges of the bowl once or twice to be sure that all ingredients are blended. Spoon about ⅔ cup of the mixture into each jar or serving dish on top of the graham cracker crust.
Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours until set. Serve topped with berries, lemon zest, other desired toppings, or plain.

Nutrition

Calories: 247.25kcal
Fat: 13.86g
Saturated Fat: 9.10g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.83g
Carbohydrates: 24.17g
Fiber: 0.36g
Sugar: 18.10g
Protein: 7.16g
Cholesterol: 26.80mg
Sodium: 281.48mg
Calcium: 96.57mg
Potassium: 125.04mg
Iron: 0.49mg
Vitamin A: 60.86µg
Vitamin C: 2.04mg

Helpful Technique for Making Light No-Bake Cheesecake

When making the graham cracker crust, ensure that the coconut oil is melted but not hot. This helps the crumbs bind together more effectively, creating a firm base for your cheesecake.

Time-Saving Tips for No-Bake Cheesecake

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use pre-made crust: Save time by using a store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making your own.

Utilize a stand mixer: A stand mixer can blend the cheesecake mixture faster and more efficiently than a food processor.

Chill in the freezer: Speed up the setting process by placing the cheesecake in the freezer for 30-45 minutes instead of refrigerating for 2-3 hours.

Pre-portion servings: Use individual jars or dishes to avoid cutting and serving later.

Substitute Ingredients For Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe

graham cracker - Substitute with digestive biscuits: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor, making them a great alternative for the crust.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a similar binding effect and richness to the crust.
low-fat cream cheese - Substitute with neufchâtel cheese: Neufchâtel cheese has a similar texture and slightly lower fat content, making it a good alternative.
low-fat vanilla greek yogurt - Substitute with plain low-fat greek yogurt: Plain low-fat Greek yogurt can be used with an added splash of vanilla extract to mimic the flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a suitable replacement.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different but complementary flavor to the cheesecake.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar taste.

Presenting Your Light No-Bake Cheesecake

Use elegant glass jars: Present the cheesecake in small, clear glass jars to showcase the layers of graham cracker crust and creamy cheesecake filling.
Add a berry compote: Top each jar with a vibrant berry compote made from fresh berries and a touch of honey to add color and a burst of flavor.
Garnish with lemon zest: Sprinkle a small amount of lemon zest on top of the cheesecake for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
Use edible flowers: Decorate the top of each jar with a few delicate edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Serve on a slate board: Arrange the jars on a sleek slate board with a few scattered berries and mint leaves for a visually appealing presentation.
Provide a small spoon: Place a small, elegant dessert spoon next to each jar to enhance the dining experience and make it easy to enjoy the cheesecake.
Add a drizzle of honey: Just before serving, drizzle a thin stream of honey over the top of the cheesecake for added sweetness and a glossy finish.

Essential Tools for Making No-Bake Cheesecake

Food processor: Used to blend all the cheesecake ingredients together until smooth and well-combined.
Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing the graham cracker crumbs and coconut oil together.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, coconut oil, cream cheese, yogurt, and honey.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well-blended.
Spoon: Used for packing the graham cracker crust into the jars or serving dishes and for spooning the cheesecake mixture on top of the crust.
Jars or serving dishes: Containers where the cheesecake will be assembled and served.
Refrigerator: Needed to chill the cheesecake for 2 to 3 hours until it sets.
Knife: Useful for cutting any toppings like berries or lemon zest to garnish the cheesecake.

Storing and Freezing Your No-Bake Cheesecake

These no-bake cheesecakes can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days. The graham cracker crust may soften slightly over time, but the cheesecakes will still taste delicious.
To freeze these cheesecakes, wrap each individual serving tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy a frozen cheesecake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Once thawed, you can add your desired toppings, such as fresh berries, lemon zest, or a drizzle of honey.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can enjoy the cheesecakes straight from the freezer. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before digging in.
For the best quality and texture, it's recommended to consume the cheesecakes within 1 month of freezing. However, they will still be safe to eat for up to 2 months if stored properly in the freezer.

Interesting Fact About No-Bake Cheesecake

A fun fact about this light no bake cheesecake recipe is that using Greek yogurt not only adds a creamy texture but also boosts the protein content, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake.

Is Making No-Bake Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?

This light no bake cheesecake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using low-fat cream cheese, vanilla Greek yogurt, and honey keeps the ingredients affordable while still delivering a delicious dessert. The graham cracker crust and minimal use of coconut oil also contribute to its budget-friendly nature. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $10-$12 USD.

Is This No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The light no-bake cheesecake recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake, as it uses low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt, which are lower in calories and fat while providing a good source of protein. The recipe also uses honey as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar, which is a better option for those watching their sugar intake. Additionally, the recipe incorporates lemon juice and vanilla extract, which add flavor without increasing the calorie count significantly.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Consider using whole wheat graham crackers or a nut-based crust to increase the fiber content and provide healthier fats
Reduce the amount of honey used, or replace it with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia to further decrease the sugar content
Incorporate more fresh fruits as toppings to increase the vitamin and antioxidant content of the dessert
Use fat-free cream cheese and Greek yogurt to further reduce the calorie and fat content, although this may slightly affect the texture and taste of the cheesecake

By making these small adjustments, you can create an even healthier version of this light no-bake cheesecake that still satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary goals. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a small portion of this dessert as part of a balanced diet can be a guilt-free pleasure.

Editor's Opinion on This Light No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

This light no-bake cheesecake recipe is a delightful, guilt-free dessert option. The use of low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt ensures a creamy texture while keeping it healthier. The honey and lemon juice add a natural sweetness and a refreshing tang, respectively. The graham cracker crust, combined with coconut oil, provides a satisfying crunch. It's simple to prepare and perfect for individual servings. Topping it with fresh berries or lemon zest can elevate the flavors further. Overall, it's a well-balanced, easy-to-make dessert that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.

Enhance Your Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fresh Berry Salad: Complement the light and creamy cheesecake with a vibrant fresh berry salad. The juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries will add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake.

Lemon Basil Sorbet: Pair your no-bake cheesecake with a zesty lemon basil sorbet. The tangy lemon and aromatic basil will cleanse your palate and enhance the lemon juice in the cheesecake.

Roasted Peach Compote: Elevate your dessert experience with a warm roasted peach compote. The caramelized peaches and a hint of cinnamon will add a cozy, comforting layer to your cheesecake.

Minted Melon Balls: Add a refreshing twist with minted melon balls. The sweet and juicy melon combined with fresh mint leaves will provide a light and invigorating side to your creamy cheesecake.

Coconut Lime Granita: For a tropical flair, serve your cheesecake with a coconut lime granita. The icy texture and the exotic flavors of coconut and lime will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise.

Similar Recipes to Light No-Bake Cheesecake

Strawberry Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy greek yogurt with fresh strawberries and crunchy granola for a delightful and healthy dessert. Top with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds with coconut milk and let it sit overnight to create a rich and creamy pudding. Serve with fresh mango slices and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.

Blueberry Lemon Bars: Create a zesty lemon filling over a buttery shortbread crust and top with a generous layer of fresh blueberries. Bake until golden and let cool before slicing into bars. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder, a touch of maple syrup, and a splash of vanilla extract to create a rich and velvety mousse. Chill and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings.

Peach Basil Sorbet: Puree ripe peaches with fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a bit of honey. Freeze the mixture and churn in an ice cream maker for a refreshing and aromatic sorbet.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with No-Bake Cheesecake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Add a touch of Italian flair to your menu with Bruschetta. Toast slices of baguette until crispy, then top with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This vibrant and flavorful appetizer is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests wanting more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with aromatic herbs. Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious option that can be customized to suit any palate. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground turkey or beef, quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, and tomato sauce. Season with cumin, paprika, and chili powder for a southwestern flair. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great choice for a hearty dinner.

Why trust this Light No Bake Cheesecake Recipe:

This light no-bake cheesecake recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Using low-fat cream cheese and low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt, it offers a healthier twist on a classic dessert without sacrificing taste. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, while the honey and lemon juice provide natural sweetness and a refreshing zing. It's easy to prepare, requiring no oven time, and sets beautifully in the refrigerator. Top it with fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor. Trust this recipe for a delicious, guilt-free treat.

Want to share your thoughts on this light no bake cheesecake recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let us know how your cheesecake turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use full-fat cream cheese instead of low-fat?

Yes, you can definitely use full-fat cream cheese if you prefer. It will make the cheesecake richer and creamier.

How long can I store these no-bake cheesecakes in the fridge?

You can store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they are covered to keep them fresh.

Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Absolutely! You can use plain Greek yogurt or even a flavored one if you want to experiment with different tastes.

What can I use instead of coconut oil for the crust?

You can use melted butter or any other type of oil you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor.

Can I freeze these no-bake cheesecakes?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just make sure to let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.