If you’ve ever craved a luscious dessert that’s as striking as it is simple, this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe is about to be your new best friend in the kitchen. With its buttery biscuit crust, silky smooth cream cheese filling, and that inviting no-bake ease, it delivers all the rich flavor and creamy texture you want from a cheesecake without turning on the oven. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this slab cheesecake shows just how simple ingredients can come together to create a show-stopping dessert that looks impressive and tastes divine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients sets the stage for cheesecake magic. Each element plays a vital role in balancing texture, creaminess, and flavor intensity to make your Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe truly shine.
- Biscoff biscuits or plain cookies (300g / 10 oz): These form the crunchy, caramel-tinged base that anchors the cheesecake with just a hint of warmth.
- Unsalted butter (120g / 8 tbsp), melted: Binds the cookie crumbs together for a firm, buttery crust that cuts perfectly.
- Cinnamon powder (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds a subtle spicy warmth to the crust, making it even more aromatic and cozy.
- Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Enhances the cookie crust’s caramel notes and helps achieve a delightful caramelized flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates the sweetness and balances the overall flavor of the crust.
- Gelatin powder (3 1/2 tsp / 13.5 g), unflavored: Essential for setting the cheesecake filling firmly without baking.
- Cold tap water (3 tbsp): Used to bloom the gelatin, making it dissolve smoothly into the cream mixture.
- Thickened or heavy cream, fridge cold (1 1/2 cups + 2 cups for whipped cream): Imparts luxuriously creamy texture and body to both the filling and the topping.
- Cream cheese block, well softened (750g / 24 oz, 3 blocks): The star ingredient that provides that classic cheesecake tang and creaminess—avoid tub cream cheese for best results.
- Caster sugar (1 1/4 cups + 3 tbsp for whipped cream): Sweetens the filling and whipped cream perfectly without graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp in filling + 1 1/2 tsp in whipped cream): The tiny sprinkle of vanilla brightens every bite with warm, floral notes.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp, optional): Adds a fresh zing that cuts through the richness subtly but beautifully.
- Assorted fresh fruits and decorations: Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, rosemary sprigs, orange slices, and icing sugar provide an eye-catching, festive finish that makes this cheesecake slab irresistibly inviting.
How to Make Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Crust
Start by crushing your Biscoff biscuits or plain cookies into fine crumbs—about 1 1/2 cups worth. Mix these crumbs with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a rectangular slab or springform pan to form that gorgeous base that will give your cheesecake structure and a wonderful crunch. Pop it into the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder over cold tap water and leave it to sit for a few minutes. This “blooming” step helps the gelatin absorb water and dissolve smoothly, preventing lumps when it’s later mixed into the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with caster sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice, if using, to brighten the flavor. Warm the bloomed gelatin gently just until it turns into liquid, then mix it quickly into the cream cheese mixture. Next, whip the chilled cream until soft peaks form, and fold it gently into the cream cheese blend. This process creates that light, airy texture that makes this slab cheesecake so dreamy without baking.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled biscuit crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Refrigerate the slab for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the gelatin to set the filling firmly. The waiting time is worth it because you end up with a perfectly sliceable, creamy cheesecake slab without any hassle.
Step 5: Make the Chantilly Whipped Cream
Whip the remaining chilled cream with caster sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This Chantilly cream tops the cheesecake slab with a light, fluffy layer that adds elegance and extra indulgence.
Step 6: Decorate Your Cheesecake Slab
Once set, spread or pipe the Chantilly whipped cream generously over the cheesecake surface. Then get creative by decorating with fresh strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, rosemary sprigs, and pretty orange slices. Finish with a light dusting of icing sugar for that extra festive, snowy touch that makes this cheesecake suitable for any occasion.
How to Serve Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries and sprigs of rosemary aren’t just pretty—they add fresh, tangy contrasts and a hint of herbal brightness that elevates every bite. The citrusy orange slices cut through the richness, while a sift of icing sugar brings a final touch of sweetness and charm.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheesecake slab with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant herbal tea for a complete after-meal experience. Light fruit salads or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the side also make wonderful companions for those who want a bit of extra flavor play.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cheesecake slab on a rustic wooden board or a sleek marble platter for an eye-catching display. Try piping the whipped cream in swirls or rosettes before adding the fruit toppings to create a bakery-style finish. You can even cut the slab into different shapes with cookie cutters for individual serving sizes that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesecake slab covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh flavors—just remember to handle gently as it’s delicate.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cheesecake slab securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to ensure it stays soft and creamy without condensation ruining the texture.
Reheating
This cheesecake slab is best enjoyed chilled and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer it slightly less cold, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to awaken its creamy flavors fully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of biscuits for the crust?
Absolutely! While Biscoff biscuits provide a wonderful caramel flavor, you can substitute with graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any plain cookies you love. Just aim for about 1 1/2 cups of fine crumbs for the crust.
Why do I need to bloom gelatin?
Blooming gelatin in cold water ensures it hydrates evenly and dissolves smoothly when warmed. This prevents clumps in your cheesecake filling and helps it set perfectly firm.
Can I make this Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe vegan?
This recipe relies on dairy cream and cream cheese for its creamy texture and flavor, plus gelatin to set it. For a vegan version, you’d need to find dairy-free cream cheeses and a plant-based gelatin substitute, but the texture will be different.
Do I have to use lemon juice in the filling?
Lemon juice is optional but recommended as it adds a fresh brightness that balances the sweetness and richness. If you don’t have it on hand or prefer a milder taste, you can leave it out without compromising the set or texture.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?
For the best set and texture, chilling your cheesecake slab for at least 4 hours is key. Overnight chilling is ideal to ensure every slice stays firm while maintaining that luscious creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe is one of those treasured desserts that bring joy and ease to your kitchen adventures. Creamy, dreamy, and beautifully simple to make, it’s perfect for busy days or when you want to impress without stress. Give it a try, customize it with your favorite toppings, and watch it become a staple dessert you reach for again and again.
PrintEasy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab Recipe
This Easy No-Bake Cheesecake Slab is a deliciously creamy dessert featuring a crunchy Biscoff biscuit crust and a smooth, velvety filling that sets perfectly without baking. Topped with lightly sweetened Chantilly cream and festive fresh fruit and herbs, this cheesecake slab is perfect for holidays or special occasions where you want an impressive yet hassle-free dessert.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Western
Ingredients
Biscuit Crust
- 300g/10 oz Biscoff (38 pieces) or other plain biscuit/cookies (about 1 1/2 cups crumbs)
- 120g (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (optional, recommended)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
No-Bake Cheesecake Filling
- 3 1/2 tsp (13.5 g) unflavoured gelatin powder
- 3 tbsp cold tap water
- 1 1/2 cups thickened or heavy cream, fridge cold
- 750g/24 oz cream cheese block (3 blocks, well softened at room temperature – do not use tub cream cheese)
- 1 1/4 cups caster sugar / superfine sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Whipped Cream (Chantilly Cream)
- 2 cups thickened or heavy cream, fridge cold
- 3 tbsp caster sugar / superfine sugar (or 6 tbsp icing sugar, sifted)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Christmas Decoration
- Strawberries (halved or quartered if large)
- Blackberries and raspberries
- Cherries
- Rosemary sprigs
- 6 orange slices, cut into half moons
- Icing sugar / confectionary sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Biscuit Crust: Crush the Biscoff biscuits into fine crumbs. In a bowl, combine the crumbs with melted butter, cinnamon powder, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form the Crust Layer: Press the biscuit mixture firmly into the base of a rectangular baking pan or slab pan lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth and compress the base evenly. Refrigerate to set while preparing the cheesecake filling.
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin powder over 3 tablespoons of cold tap water in a small bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes until it softens and blooms.
- Heat Gelatin: Gently warm the bloomed gelatin in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler until fully dissolved. Avoid boiling.
- Whip the Cream: Using a stand or hand mixer, whip the 1 1/2 cups of fridge-cold thickened cream until it reaches soft peaks. Set aside.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with caster sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice, then mix well.
- Add Gelatin to Cream Cheese Mixture: Pour the dissolved gelatin into the cream cheese mixture and beat well to combine thoroughly.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, maintaining as much airiness as possible to keep the filling light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled biscuit crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Return to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Prepare Chantilly Cream: Whip 2 cups of cold thickened cream with caster sugar and vanilla extract until soft to medium peaks form.
- Decorate: Once the cheesecake has set, spread or pipe the Chantilly cream over the top. Decorate with fresh strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, rosemary sprigs, and orange slice half moons. Dust lightly with icing sugar before serving.
- Serve: Cut into slabs and serve chilled. Keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use plain biscuits like Biscoff or any similar cookie for the crust; avoid chocolate or flavored varieties that might alter taste.
- Gelatin powder is unflavoured and essential to help the cheesecake filling set without baking.
- Ensure the cream used for whipping is very cold to achieve best volume and texture.
- Use block cream cheese, softened to room temperature, not the spreadable tub type.
- Optional lemon juice adds slight tanginess but can be omitted if preferred.
- For a firmer set, gelatin quantity can be adjusted slightly according to preference.
- This no-bake cheesecake requires refrigeration and several hours of chilling to set properly.
- Decorations can be customized seasonally to suit different occasions.
