This No-Bake Pistachio Strawberry Cheesecake is an indulgent delight.
I’ve always enjoyed creating desserts that not only taste amazing but also offer a mix of textures and flavors. This no-bake pistachio strawberry cheesecake is one of those desserts that comes together easily but feels like something truly special. I first thought of making this when I had leftover pistachios from a trail mix recipe and fresh strawberries that needed to be used up. As I layered the pistachio-infused cheesecake mixture over a graham cracker crust and topped it with juicy strawberries, I knew this would be a new family favorite. It’s the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t require the oven—perfect for a warm afternoon gathering or any celebration where you want to impress without the fuss.
Did You Know?
Pistachios are not just a tasty snack—they're also packed with nutrients. A single serving of pistachios provides a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also one of the lowest-calorie nuts and are rich in healthy fats that can support heart health. The high fiber content in pistachios can aid digestion, and they are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, which helps regulate blood sugar and promotes healthy brain function. Including pistachios in your diet can be a delicious way to add nutrition to your favorite dishes.
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled and ground into fine crumbs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
Personal Tip: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch square springform pan, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling. * You can also choose to use a round springform pan.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Add the ground pistachios and fold in until fully incorporated.
Personal Tip: Use a food processor to grind the pistachios into a fine crumb for a smooth texture in the cheesecake.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth it out. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top, then add the remaining cheesecake filling. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Prepare the Topping:
In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spread the whipped cream over the top of the cheesecake. Garnish with sliced strawberries and chopped pistachios.
Personal Tip: For a professional look, arrange the strawberries in a circular pattern around the top edge of the cheesecake.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for an additional hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Sugars: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Protein: 6g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Opt for store-brand cream cheese and graham crackers to save money without sacrificing quality. Purchasing strawberries and pistachios when they are in season or on sale can significantly reduce costs.
- DIY Pistachio Crumbs: Instead of buying pre-ground pistachios, buy whole nuts and grind them yourself using a food processor. This ensures freshness and saves money.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Making your own whipped cream is both cost-effective and delicious. Freshly whipped cream has a much better texture and flavor than store-bought versions, plus you avoid unnecessary preservatives.
- Seasonal Shopping: Buy fresh strawberries in season or consider using frozen ones when fresh are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the cheesecake to avoid excess moisture.
- Crust Alternatives: You can use crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even pistachio cookies as an alternative to graham crackers for the crust. This adds variety and can often be more cost-effective.
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake can also be frozen without the topping and thawed when ready to serve.
- Portion Control: Slice the cheesecake into smaller portions to stretch it for more servings. This helps reduce costs and makes the dessert last longer for larger gatherings.
- Reusable Baking Essentials: Invest in a quality springform pan that can be used for multiple no-bake desserts. Proper care and storage of your kitchen tools will make them last longer, saving you money in the long run.
- Repurpose Ingredients: Leftover pistachios can be used in salads or as a topping for yogurt. This helps reduce waste and adds nutrition to other meals.
- Whipped Cream Techniques: For the best whipped cream, use cold ingredients and chill your bowl and beaters. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape longer when piped.
Let’s Learn About Chocolate: What Is Considered Healthy Chocolate?
When it comes to chocolate, not all varieties offer the same health benefits. The key to choosing healthy chocolate lies in the cacao content. Dark chocolate, particularly those with 70% or higher cacao, is considered the healthiest option. This type of chocolate contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that help improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dark chocolate is also lower in sugar compared to milk chocolate, making it a better choice for those looking to indulge without spiking blood sugar levels. However, it’s important to enjoy chocolate in moderation, as even dark chocolate contains fats and calories that can add up quickly.