No-Bake Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

No-Bake Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Recipe Ultimate Treat

My recent obsession with no-bake raspberry lemon swirl cheesecake has completely transformed my dessert game.

Sweet summer memories cascade through each silky bite of this dreamy treat.

Cool layers blend tangy citrus with luscious berry notes in a stunning presentation.

Creamy textures dance across your palate with surprising lightness and elegance.

Minimal kitchen effort delivers maximum deliciousness in this show-stopping dessert.

Simple ingredients come together like magic without requiring any baking skills.

You can wow dinner guests with zero stress and maximum flavor.

Grab a slice and savor every incredible moment of delectable bliss.

What Tastes Great with Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake

  • Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the tangy lemon and sweet raspberry notes. These light wines enhance the creamy cheesecake's bright flavors without overwhelming the delicate dessert.
  • Serve alongside a small plate of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. The additional fresh fruit intensifies the existing raspberry swirl and provides a beautiful color contrast on the plate.
  • Brew a delicate chamomile or lavender tea to balance the richness of the cheesecake. The herbal undertones will cleanse the palate and provide a soothing counterpoint to the dessert's creamy texture.
  • Add a small scoop of zesty lemon sorbet on the side. The citrusy, light sorbet echoes the lemon in the cheesecake while offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Fun Flavor Variations to Try with This Dessert

  • Gluten-Free Crust Swap: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed almond flour cookies for a celiac-friendly base.
  • Vegan Cheesecake Alternative: Use cashew cream cheese, coconut cream, and plant-based butter to create a dairy-free version that maintains a creamy texture.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use fresh raspberries instead of sugary raspberry preserves to reduce overall sugar content.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Replace graham cracker crust with ground almonds or crushed pecans mixed with melted butter, and use a sugar-free sweetener to align with ketogenic diet requirements.

Answers for Your Cheesecake Questions

  • What type of graham crackers work best for the crust?

Traditional honey or cinnamon graham crackers are perfect. You can also use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or crush whole crackers in a food processor for a fine, even texture.

  • Can I substitute the raspberries with another fruit?

Fresh or frozen strawberries can work as a great alternative. Blueberries also create a beautiful swirl effect and provide a similar tangy flavor profile.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this cheesecake?

A springform pan is ideal, but a regular pie dish works too. An electric mixer helps create a smooth cheesecake filling, though you can also use a whisk with some extra arm strength.

  • How do I achieve the perfect swirl pattern?

Use a toothpick or thin knife to gently drag the raspberry mixture through the cheesecake filling. Create figure-eight or zigzag patterns for a beautiful marbled effect without overmixing.

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake with No Oven Required

  • This no-bake cheesecake eliminates the need for oven time, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious dessert without complex baking steps.
  • Combining tangy lemon and sweet raspberries creates a vibrant, light dessert that's ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual family dinners.
  • With just a few simple ingredients like graham crackers, cream cheese, and fresh fruits, this recipe offers a sophisticated dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal culinary skills.
  • The bright, creamy cheesecake appeals to both adults and children, making it perfect for family celebrations, potlucks, or weekend treats that everyone will enjoy.

Everything You Need for This Swirled No-Bake Dessert

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs, Sugar, Butter: A classic base that provides a sweet, crunchy foundation with rich buttery flavor. Opt for fine graham cracker crumbs for a smooth texture.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary creamy component that gives cheesecake its signature smooth texture. Room temperature cream cheese blends more easily.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and helps create a silky, rich filling. Full-fat version recommended for best results.
  • Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness and adds freshness. Use fresh lemons for the most vibrant taste.
Fruit and Topping Ingredients:
  • Raspberries, Raspberry Jam: Provides sweet-tart flavor and beautiful swirled appearance. Fresh or high-quality frozen raspberries work well. Choose seedless jam for smoother swirls.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor and adds depth to the cheesecake. Pure vanilla extract offers the best taste.
  • Heavy Whipping Cream: Helps create a light, airy texture and aids in setting the filling. Cold cream whips best.

Putting Together a No-Bake Cheesecake Like a Pro

Craft A Crumbly Graham Cracker Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until the mixture looks like damp sand. Press the crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a smooth, compact base. Pop the pan into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the creamy filling.

Whip Up A Silky Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually blend in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until the texture becomes light and airy.

Create A Vibrant Raspberry Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mash fresh raspberries with a fork. Strain the raspberry mixture to remove seeds, creating a smooth, bright puree.

Assemble The Dreamy Cheesecake

Gently fold the raspberry puree into the cream cheese mixture, creating beautiful swirled patterns. Pour the filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Chill And Set The Dessert

Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The cheesecake will firm up and develop rich, creamy flavor.

Garnish And Serve

Before serving, top the cheesecake with fresh raspberries, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy this refreshing no-bake dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Tricks to Achieve That Smooth Swirl Look

  • Prevent Crumb Crumbling: Add the melted butter gradually to graham cracker mixture, ensuring it holds together perfectly without becoming too wet or dry.
  • Master the Crust Technique: Use the back of a measuring cup or flat-bottomed glass to press crumbs evenly and firmly, creating a compact, smooth base for your cheesecake.
  • Chill for Stability: Refrigerate the crust for at least 15-20 minutes before adding filling to help it set and prevent potential crumbling when slicing.
  • Customize Crust Options: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed cookies like digestive biscuits for alternative dietary needs.
  • Temperature Matters: Ensure butter is fully melted but not hot when mixing with crumbs to achieve the perfect binding consistency.

Store and Slice Your Cheesecake

  • Store your No-Bake Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover the top tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any moisture or unwanted flavors from seeping in.
  • Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake will maintain its quality for up to 1 month.
  • Remove the cheesecake from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly. This method helps preserve the texture and prevents condensation.
  • For the best taste and texture, enjoy the cheesecake chilled directly from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
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No-Bake Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

No-Bake Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Delightful no-bake raspberry lemon swirl cheesecake brings summer’s freshest flavors into a creamy, elegant dessert. Cool citrus and sweet berries dance together, creating a perfect balance that will refresh and satisfy chocolate and fruit lovers alike.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 1.5 cups (354 ml) graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

Filling:

  • 16 ounces (454 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

Raspberry Swirl:

  • 1 cup (125 g) fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Pulverize graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend thoroughly with granulated sugar and melted butter, creating a cohesive sandy mixture.
  2. Transfer the crumb blend into a springform pan, methodically pressing and compacting the base to form an even, dense foundation with uniform thickness.
  3. Chill the prepared crust in the refrigerator to stabilize its structure while assembling the cheesecake filling.
  4. Whip cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until achieving a smooth, velvety consistency with no lumps remaining.
  5. Gradually incorporate sweetened condensed milk, blending until the mixture becomes silky and well-integrated.
  6. Fold in fresh lemon juice and zest, infusing the filling with bright, citrusy notes that complement the creamy base.
  7. Separately puree fresh raspberries to create a vibrant, jewel-toned fruit sauce.
  8. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the chilled crust, creating a level surface.
  9. Drizzle raspberry puree across the top of the filling in elegant swirling patterns.
  10. Use a thin knife or skewer to gently marble the raspberry sauce through the cheesecake, creating intricate visual textures.
  11. Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow complete setting and flavor melding.
  12. Before serving, carefully release the springform pan and garnish with additional fresh raspberries and lemon zest.

Notes

  • Swap traditional graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour crackers or crushed nuts for a celiac-friendly version.
  • For extra texture, toast the graham cracker crumbs lightly in a skillet before mixing with butter to enhance their nutty flavor profile.
  • Prevent soggy crust by ensuring the melted butter is fully incorporated and pressed firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid base that holds together when sliced.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to guarantee a smooth, lump-free filling that blends seamlessly and creates a silky cheesecake texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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