Lemony No Bake Cheesecake

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A light, refreshing no-bake lemon cheesecake with a tangy flavor, perfect for summer gatherings and easy to customize with berries or pie fillings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (3 oz.) pkg. lemon jello
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups Cool Whip

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve lemon jello in boiling water; set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, with electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
  3. Gradually beat in the dissolved gelatin into the cream cheese.
  4. Fold in the Cool Whip until well combined.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a crust.
  6. Top with strawberries, blueberries, cherry pie filling, or a combination of berries.
  7. Chill for 4 hours or until firm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a tangy twist. If you prefer a firmer texture, add more gelatin. Be sure to mix the jello thoroughly with boiling water to avoid lumps and allow it to cool slightly before adding to cream cheese. You can also use sugar-free jello for a lower-calorie dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a drizzle of fruit syrup for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or can be enjoyed alongside coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it as part of a brunch spread featuring items like a Brunch Omelet or pastries.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual slices. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight before serving. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemony No Bake Cheesecake contains roughly 253 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.

253 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.5g 9% DV
Total Fat 14.4g 18% DV
Carbs 26.8g 10% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 6.3g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 274.3mg 12% DV
Potassium 97.4mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 19.1mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 64.2mcg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 28.9mg 2% DV
Iron 1.5mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted to use any flavor of jello you prefer. Just remember that the flavor will change the overall taste of the cheesecake, so choose a flavor that complements your toppings.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a firm texture.

Is it possible to use a different type of cream cheese?

While low-fat cream cheese works well for this recipe, you can use regular cream cheese for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.

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).

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