Unbaked Cheesecake

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, no-bake cheesecake with lemon and pineapple flavors, perfect for hot days or a quick dessert that combines tangy and sweet notes.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • lemon Jell-O (small size)
  • cream cheese (large size)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 can (large) Carnation milk, whipped
  • 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained
  • graham cracker or vanilla wafer crust

Instructions

  1. Dissolve lemon Jell-O in 1 cup hot water and let it cool.
  2. Cream large package of cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the cooled Jell-O mixture to the cream cheese and sugar mixture.
  4. Mix in the can of whipped Carnation milk.
  5. Beat slowly with an electric mixer until thick.
  6. Add the drained crushed pineapple and mix well.
  7. Pour the mixture into a 13 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish lined with graham cracker or vanilla wafer crust.
  8. Chill overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the lemon Jell-O with any other flavor for a unique twist. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes. This no-bake cheesecake is reminiscent of the flavors in American recipes like the Festive Pina Colada Cheesecake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful dessert spread, consider serving it alongside Family Favorite Peach Pie or Creamy Chocolate Cheesecake to offer guests a variety of flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing the cheesecake as it may change the consistency. If you need to serve it later, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Unbaked Cheesecake contains roughly 403 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein.

403 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.4g 15% DV
Total Fat 23.9g 31% DV
Carbs 44.1g 16% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 6.6g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 385.5mg 17% DV
Potassium 822.8mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 54mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 181.2mcg 20% DV
Vitamin C 3.2mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 115.3mg 9% DV
Iron 9.5mg 53% DV
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 type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker and vanilla wafer crusts are traditional, you can experiment with Oreo crusts or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just ensure the crust complements the sweetness of the cheesecake filling.

How long does it take for the cheesecake to set?

Chilling the cheesecake overnight is ideal for it to set properly. However, if you're short on time, allow it to chill for at least 4 hours. Just keep in mind that the longer it chills, the firmer and more flavorful it becomes.

Can I add toppings to the cheesecake?

Yes! You can add a variety of toppings like chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a fruit compote. Consider a tropical topping to enhance the lemon flavor or even a layer of whipped cream before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

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 →