If you have a sweet tooth and love the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake but dread heating up the oven on a hot day, this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It brings together a luscious chocolate cream cheese filling set atop a crunchy Oreo crust, creating a dessert that’s as effortless as it is irresistible. Perfect for celebrations or a casual treat, this cheesecake is delightfully smooth, deeply chocolatey, and incredibly satisfying—every bite feels like a little moment of joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe right is all about the perfect combination of simple but impactful ingredients. Each one is chosen to build the cake’s signature texture and irresistible flavor, from the crumbly base to the silky, rich filling.
- Oreo cookie crumbs: These give the crust its classic chocolatey crunch and a hint of sweetness that sets the foundation.
- Melted butter: Acts like a binder for the crumbly crust, giving it structure and that perfect buttery richness.
- Cream cheese (room temperature): The creamy heart of the filling, providing richness and smooth texture.
- Sugar: Balances the chocolate bitterness with sweet notes and helps achieve the perfect creaminess.
- Cocoa powder: Adds an intense chocolate flavor that deepens the whole cheesecake experience.
- Melted semi-sweet chocolate: Infuses a glossy, luscious chocolate layer that melts beautifully into the creamy mix.
- Cold heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfection, it lightens the filling and creates that dreamy cheesecake fluffiness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without changing its texture—smooth and delicate.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch to heighten the chocolate flavors and add warmth.
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings: For the finishing touch, adding a decorative flair and extra indulgence.
How to Make No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the Oreo cookie crumbs with the melted butter in a mixing bowl. This mixture should feel like damp sand when combined. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Pop the pan into the fridge to chill while you prepare the luscious filling—it needs this chill time to hold its shape perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder until the mixture is perfectly smooth—no lumps here. Gradually pour in the melted semi-sweet chocolate, mixing well after each addition to keep that silky texture. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, making sure to keep the airiness intact for the most dreamy cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Spread the filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or better yet, overnight. This time allows the cheesecake to set firmly, making every slice sturdy but soft in the best way.
Step 4: Final Touch and Serve
Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top it with dollops of whipped cream and finish with artful sprinkles of chocolate shavings for that perfect, irresistible look. Slice generously and get ready to fall in love with every bite.
How to Serve No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your no bake chocolate cheesecake is where you get to have fun and add personal flair. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries make a vibrant, tangy contrast to the sweetness, while chocolate curls or a dusting of cocoa powder offer an elegant chocolate boost. Even a drizzle of caramel sauce or crushed nuts can elevate the texture and visual appeal effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or rich espresso, which balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes. For a refreshing kick, serve alongside a simple mint tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy ice cream makes a delightful companion to the dense, velvety texture of the cheesecake.
Creative Ways to Present
You can present this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe in a variety of ways depending on the occasion. For a casual gathering, serve it straight from the springform pan with rustic cuts. For a more polished presentation, slice the cheesecake and plate it with artistic drizzles of raspberry coulis or chocolate ganache. Even individual mini cheesecakes in mason jars or parfait glasses create charming and convenient single servings that wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers should be tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and kept refrigerated. Because this cheesecake relies on cream cheese and whipped cream, it’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days to retain its creamy texture and fresh taste.
Freezing
You can freeze this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe for up to one month. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cheesecake is served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow any frozen slices to thaw completely in the refrigerator so you can enjoy the smooth and creamy consistency as intended.
FAQs
Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While Oreo crumbs provide that iconic chocolate crunch, you can substitute with graham crackers, chocolate wafers, or even crushed pretzels to give your crust a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the cream cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut cream. Just ensure they’re well chilled and whipped correctly for the best results.
How long does the No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake need to chill?
For the perfect set, chilling for a minimum of 5 hours is essential, but overnight chilling will give you the firmest, most sliceable texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This cheesecake is ideal for make-ahead entertaining since it needs chill time. Prepare it a day or two in advance to save yourself last-minute stress.
What can I use instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
If you prefer, milk chocolate will make the cheesecake sweeter and creamier, while dark chocolate will deepen the bitterness and richness. Choose based on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your dessert lineup—its creamy texture, rich flavors, and no-fuss preparation are simply unbeatable. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this cheesecake is joy in every bite. So grab those ingredients, dive in, and let this indulgent delight brighten your day!
Print
No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert made with an Oreo cookie crust and a smooth chocolate-infused cream cheese filling. Perfect for chocolate lovers, it requires no baking and is chilled to set, making it an easy yet impressive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 3/4 cups (369g) Oreo cookie crumbs
- 5 tbsp (70g) melted butter
Filling
- 24 oz (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
- 3 tbsp (22g) cocoa powder
- 8 oz melted semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) cold heavy whipping cream
- 3/4 cup (86g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings or other toppings
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with the sugar and cocoa powder until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate the melted semi-sweet chocolate, mixing thoroughly to combine. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a light and airy texture without deflating the mixture.
- Assemble: Spread the chocolate cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust, smoothing out the top. Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or preferably overnight, allowing it to fully set and firm up.
- Serve: Once the cheesecake has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Decorate the top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or your choice of toppings. Slice carefully and serve chilled to enjoy a rich and creamy no-bake chocolate cheesecake.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for a firmer set and enhanced flavor melding.
- The crust can be made with other chocolate sandwich cookies if Oreos are not available.
- This cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
