German No-Bake Cheesecake

Prep: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A creamy, tangy no-bake cheesecake with lemon flavor, perfect for summer gatherings or quick desserts, combining smooth cream cheese and refreshing lemon jello in a graham cracker crust.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 can evaporated milk, chilled
  • 1 (3 oz.) package lemon jello
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
  • juice of 1 lemon or 2 Tbsp. ReaLemon
  • 1 graham cracker crust

Instructions

  1. Prepare the graham cracker crust in a 10 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Stir together the lemon jello, hot water, sugar, and cream cheese until smooth.
  3. Let the mixture cool.
  4. Whip the chilled evaporated milk until frothy.
  5. Add all other ingredients to the whipped milk and mix well.
  6. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
  7. Freeze the cheesecake overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute. If you prefer a sweeter cheesecake, adjust the sugar to your taste. Ensure the evaporated milk is thoroughly chilled before whipping; this will help achieve a frothy consistency. For a burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this cheesecake with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for added sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert even further. This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider serving alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer, where they can last for up to a month. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German No-Bake Cheesecake contains roughly 364 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 21.2g 27% DV
Carbs 39.3g 14% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 10.4g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 370.6mg 16% DV
Potassium 208.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 27mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 91.8mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 4.3mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 51.9mg 4% DV
Iron 2.8mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of jello?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello to create variations of this cheesecake. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly, so choose a flavor that complements the cream cheese and lemon juice.

How long does it take to set?

While the cheesecake freezes overnight, it usually takes about 6-8 hours to fully set. If you’re in a hurry, you can freeze it for a shorter time, but the texture may not be as firm.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be frozen for several weeks, making it a great option for parties or gatherings. Just remember to allow enough time to thaw before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →