If you’re ready to impress without ever turning on your oven, this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake is about to become your go-to dessert! With a decadent chocolate cookie crust, a velvety-smooth chocolate cream cheese filling, and absolutely zero baking required, it’s the perfect treat for chocolate lovers seeking maximum flavor with minimum fuss. This cheesecake comes together in a flash and chills into sliceable perfection, making it the ideal choice for celebrations, dinner parties, or any time you’re craving something truly indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake lies in its simple, yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each element plays a starring role, from the crunchy cookie base to the luscious chocolate filling, ensuring every bite is creamy, rich, and unforgettable.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These create a deep, chocolaty foundation and add a deliciously crunchy texture to the base.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs together for a sturdy, sliceable crust.
- Cream cheese (softened): This is the creamy heart of your cheesecake and keeps every forkful silky-smooth.
- Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar dissolves easily into the mixture, adding sweetness without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and enhances the chocolate notes.
- Sour cream: Adds just the right touch of tang and richness for that classic cheesecake flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted and slightly cooled): The main flavor superstar, bringing all the chocolatey goodness you crave.
- Heavy whipping cream (cold): Once whipped, it becomes a billowy, light addition that gives the filling its dreamy texture.
How to Make No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by mixing your chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter in a medium bowl, combining until every crumb is coated in buttery goodness. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 9-inch springform pan. A measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass works wonders to get an even layer! Pop the pan in the fridge while you move on to the next step—this helps set the crust and keeps it nice and crisp.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth—no lumps allowed. Once it’s creamy, add your powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and silky. Add the sour cream and melted (but not hot!) chocolate, blending it all together until you have a bowl of irresistible chocolate cheesecake magic.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Pour your cold heavy whipping cream into a separate bowl and beat it until stiff peaks form. This step takes a few minutes, but it’s what gives the No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake its cloud-like, mousse-y texture. Don’t overwhip; just stop as soon as the cream holds its shape.
Step 4: Fold and Fill
Gently fold the whipped cream into your chocolate cheesecake mixture using a spatula. Take your time here—soft, folding motions are key to keeping the filling light and fluffy. Once incorporated, pour it over your chilled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover your cheesecake and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours—overnight is even better! This patience is rewarded with slices that hold together perfectly and a flavor that truly develops as the cheesecake sets. When you’re ready to serve, run a thin knife around the edge and release the springform pan.
How to Serve No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake
Garnishes
No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake is fabulous on its own, but adding finishing touches takes it over the top! Try chocolate shavings, a swirl of whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries—the contrast of tart fruit and chocolate is especially irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheesecake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for classic comfort. If you’re after a show-stopping dessert platter, consider serving with an assortment of fresh fruit or a simple berry compote to cut the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your cheesecake into a party centerpiece by slicing and fanning out the pieces on a pretty platter, or make mini versions in jars or cups for adorable single servings. Add a drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce for flair, or sprinkle with toasted nuts for crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. While the flavor and texture remain spot on, just make sure to tightly wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
Need to make this dessert in advance? Great news! You can freeze either the whole cheesecake or individual slices. Wrap well in plastic wrap and then foil, and it’ll keep frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since this dessert is served chilled, you don’t need to reheat it. If it’s been frozen, simply allow it to come to refrigerator temperature before slicing and enjoying. The cheesecake is at its best when nicely chilled (never hot), so let time do the work for you!
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the cheesecake a little sweeter and milder. If you prefer a rich, less-sweet flavor, semi-sweet chocolate is your best bet, but it’s all up to your chocolate-loving heart.
Can I make No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake in advance?
Yes, in fact, it’s ideal for making ahead! The cake needs at least 6 hours to chill and set, so you can prepare it a day or two before your event for a stress-free, ready-to-serve dessert.
Will this cheesecake set without gelatin?
It sure will! The combination of whipped cream and melted chocolate, plus proper chilling, gives No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake its firm-yet-creamy structure—no gelatin or extra stabilizers needed.
How do I get extra clean slices?
For those picture-perfect slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps glide through the cheesecake smoothly and keeps the layers looking gorgeous on every plate.
Can I use a different pan if I don’t have a springform one?
A springform pan makes serving a breeze, but you can use a regular pie dish or square pan for a more casual presentation. Just line it well with parchment for easy removal—serve straight from the pan or cut into bars!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about bringing a luxurious No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake to the table and watching everyone light up at the first bite. This recipe is as impressive as it is easy, so I hope you treat yourself and your loved ones soon. Give it a try and enjoy a slice (or two) of pure chocolate bliss!
Print
No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. With a decadent chocolate crust and a silky smooth filling, this dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Perfect for any occasion, this easy no-bake cheesecake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Chocolate Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan for the crust. Chill while making the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, and melted chocolate. Mix until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the chocolate cheesecake mixture.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the filling over the crust, smooth the top, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Once set, remove from the pan, slice, and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Top with chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or berries for extra flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
