If you’re craving a rich, creamy dessert that’s easy to make and requires no baking, this no bake caramel cheesecake is your perfect solution. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth caramel cheesecake layer, and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
Why This No Bake Caramel Cheesecake is Amazing
Deliciously Sweet and Salty
This cheesecake delivers a perfect balance of sweetness from the caramel and a hint of salt that elevates the flavor. Each bite is like a bite of heaven, with layers of flavor and texture that complement each other beautifully.
Creamy Texture
The cream cheese and heavy cream give the cheesecake its velvety smooth texture, while the graham cracker crust provides a nice, slightly crunchy base that enhances the overall experience.
No Baking Required
The best part? No need for an oven! This no bake cheesecake is simple to prepare and only requires time in the fridge to set. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or anyone who wants to avoid the heat of the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This no bake caramel cheesecake uses just a few ingredients, many of which you likely already have at home.
For the Cheesecake Filling
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Cream Cheese (12 oz): Full-fat, brick-style cream cheese provides the rich, creamy texture that’s key to a good cheesecake.
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Heavy Cream (¾ cup): This helps stabilize the filling and adds to the creaminess.
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Powdered Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the filling without any graininess.
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Salted Caramel Sauce (¾ cup): Either homemade or store-bought, the caramel sauce is what gives this cheesecake its signature flavor.
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Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake layer.
For the Crust
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Graham Crackers (1½ cups, crushed): For a fresh, flavorful crust, crush your own graham crackers instead of using pre-made crumbs.
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Butter (7 tbsp, melted): Use unsalted butter or adjust seasoning if you prefer.
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Sugar (3 tbsp): Adds sweetness to the crust.
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Cinnamon (1 tsp): A touch of cinnamon elevates the graham cracker flavor.
For the Caramel Sauce
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Granulated Sugar (1 cup): The base of your homemade caramel sauce.
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Unsalted Butter (5 tbsp): Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel.
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Heavy Cream (½ cup): Helps create a smooth, silky sauce.
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Sea Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the sweetness and gives the sauce a subtle salty kick.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds extra flavor depth.
How to Make No Bake Caramel Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
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Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs, either by using a food processor or placing them in a bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
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In a bowl, mix the crumbs with cinnamon and sugar, then pour in the melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
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In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir gently to moisten the sugar and allow it to heat without stirring.
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Let the sugar mixture boil for about 8-10 minutes until it reaches an amber color.
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Remove from heat and carefully add the butter, then the cream. Stir in the salt and vanilla.
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Let the sauce cool before using it in the cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
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Beat the cream cheese and cooled caramel sauce together until smooth and creamy.
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In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
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Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until the cheesecake sets completely.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Once the cheesecake has set, drizzle the top with additional caramel sauce. Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
Pro Tips for the Perfect No Bake Caramel Cheesecake
Achieving the best possible no bake caramel cheesecake is all about getting the right balance of flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly every time.
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
To achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy texture that’s hard to smooth out. Similarly, room-temperature butter helps make the caramel sauce smoother.
2. Chill the Crust and Filling
For the best results, allow the crust to chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps it firm up and prevents it from becoming soggy. After assembling the cheesecake, be sure to give it enough time to set. For optimal texture, allow it to chill for at least 6 hours, or even overnight.
3. Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks
When whipping the heavy cream for the filling, make sure to beat it until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture in the cheesecake layer. Be careful not to over-whip the cream, as it can turn into butter.
4. Let the Caramel Cool
While it may be tempting to use warm caramel, letting it cool down completely before incorporating it into the filling is essential. Hot caramel can melt the cheesecake layer and make it too runny. Cooling it allows the caramel to thicken and maintain its rich texture.
5. Make It Your Own with Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few variations you can try:
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Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
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Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the cheesecake for a crunchy contrast.
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Coffee Twist: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cheesecake mixture for a caramel coffee flavor.
How to Serve No Bake Caramel Cheesecake
This no bake caramel cheesecake is best served chilled, directly from the refrigerator. You can slice it into squares or wedges, depending on your preference. To make it extra special, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. For added crunch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
If you’re looking to pair it with a drink, try serving it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine. The richness of the cheesecake complements these beverages perfectly, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 50 mg |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 1% |
| Calcium | 4% |
| Iron | 3% |
Why This Recipe is Perfect for All Skill Levels
This no bake caramel cheesecake is a perfect dessert for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The recipe is simple and doesn’t require any special equipment or advanced techniques. Even if you’ve never made a cheesecake before, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. Plus, the no bake nature of this dessert means that you don’t have to worry about the complexities of baking and monitoring temperatures—just mix, chill, and enjoy!
Key Takeaways
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Easy to Make: No baking required, just mix, chill, and enjoy.
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Delicious Flavor: A balance of sweet and salty caramel, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy graham cracker crust.
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Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or flavors to make it your own.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or just as a special treat.
Serving Suggestions
To serve your no bake caramel cheesecake in the most delightful way, consider these tips:
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Garnish with Fresh Fruit: A few slices of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
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Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the creaminess of the cheesecake and provides a soft texture to balance the dense filling.
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Add a Drizzle of Chocolate: Melted chocolate drizzled over the top can provide a rich and velvety flavor that complements the caramel.
Variations:
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a melted chocolate drizzle on top for a rich, indulgent twist.
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Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top or mix them into the crust for added crunch.
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Coffee Infusion: Stir in 1 tsp of instant coffee or espresso powder into the cheesecake mixture for a caramel coffee flavor.
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Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) for a fresh contrast to the rich caramel.
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Oreo Crust: Swap the graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey crust variation.
Storage and Freezing Tips
If you have leftovers or want to make this cheesecake ahead of time, it’s important to know how to store it correctly:
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Refrigeration: Keep your no bake caramel cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help preserve its freshness and keep the texture intact.
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Freezing: This cheesecake freezes well. Slice it into individual portions, place them in a freezer-safe container, and store them in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours, then add fresh caramel sauce on top before serving.
Notes:
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Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
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Cool Caramel Sauce: Let the caramel cool before adding to the filling.
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Chill Time: Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.
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Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks for a light texture.
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Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
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Variations: Try adding chocolate drizzle, nuts, or coffee for extra flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling
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12 oz (340 g) cream cheese (room temperature)
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¾ cup (170 g) salted caramel sauce
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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¾ cup (170 g) heavy cream (cold)
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¼ cup (40 g) powdered sugar
For the Graham Cracker Crust
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1½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
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1 tsp cinnamon
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3 tbsp (42 g) granulated sugar
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7 tbsp (100 g) unsalted butter (melted)
For the Caramel Sauce
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1 cup (215 g) granulated sugar
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¼ cup (59 g) water
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¼ tsp lemon juice
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½ cup (112 g) heavy cream (room temperature)
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5 tbsp (75 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
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1 tsp sea salt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Perfect for Any Season
Whether you’re serving it during a summer gathering or a cozy winter evening, this no bake caramel cheesecake is versatile enough for all seasons. The sweetness of the caramel and the richness of the cheesecake make it perfect for celebrating milestones or just treating yourself after a long day. Its smooth texture and rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds!
FAQs About No Bake Caramel Cheesecake
Q: How long does this cheesecake last?
A: This no bake caramel cheesecake can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. For best results, serve it within this time frame, as the crust may soften the longer it sits.
Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare it the day before and let it chill overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Q: What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
A: If you want a different flavor for the crust, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos or even pretzels for a sweet and salty twist.
Q: Can I freeze this no bake cheesecake?
A: Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to two months. To serve, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before topping with caramel sauce.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This No Bake Caramel Cheesecake
This no bake caramel cheesecake is a dessert that combines the best of simplicity, flavor, and texture. The buttery graham cracker crust gives a satisfying crunch, while the creamy caramel cheesecake layer is rich and indulgent. The salted caramel sauce adds the perfect touch, providing a sweet and savory finish to each bite. What’s more, the lack of baking makes this a quick and easy dessert, ideal for both experienced bakers and those new to the kitchen.
This cheesecake is not only great for family gatherings, but it also makes a wonderful treat for dinner parties, holidays, or simply a weekend treat. You can easily customize it to fit your personal tastes, from adding extra toppings like chocolate or nuts to experimenting with flavored crusts. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, and it’s guaranteed to leave your guests impressed.
Delicious No Bake Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and sugar in a bowl.
- Pour in the melted butter and stir to coat.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan. Chill in the refrigerator.
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Boil until it turns amber (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, then stir in butter, heavy cream, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the cream cheese and cooled caramel sauce until smooth.
- Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Top and Serve:
- Drizzle with the remaining caramel sauce before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Be sure to allow the caramel sauce to cool completely before using.
- You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Sugar: 22 g