No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake: A Delightful and Refreshing Dessert
There’s nothing quite like a dessert made with fresh, in-season blueberries. Whether you’re picking them up from a local farmer’s market or your favorite grocery store, selecting the best blueberries can make all the difference in your desserts. When blueberries are in season, they’re plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a no-bake cheesecake like this one. The ease of a no-bake dessert is one of its greatest charms; you can create something beautiful and delicious without ever turning on the oven. This cheesecake is not only stunning to look at, with its rich blueberry glaze and whipped cream rosettes, but it’s also a breeze to prepare. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress, whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee.
Did You Know?
Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are one of the highest antioxidant foods, helping to fight off free radicals that can damage your cells. Consuming blueberries regularly has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, brain function, and blood sugar control. These berries are also a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. Incorporating fresh blueberries into desserts like this no-bake cheesecake not only adds natural sweetness but also boosts the nutritional value of your treat.
Yield:
12 servings
Ingredients:
Graham Cracker Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Blueberry Glaze:
1 jar (10 oz) blueberry jelly
2 cups fresh blueberries
Whipped Cream for Rosettes:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Personal Tip: Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press it down evenly, ensuring a firm, even crust.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
Personal Tip: Chilling the crust while you make the filling helps it set and makes slicing the cheesecake easier.
Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Personal Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
Add the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and smooth.
Personal Tip: Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and lightness, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Personal Tip: Folding in the whipped cream gently maintains the airy texture of the cheesecake filling.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to set.
Personal Tip: Letting the cheesecake set overnight ensures a firm texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Prepare the Blueberry Glaze:
In a small saucepan, warm the blueberry jelly over low heat until it becomes pourable. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Personal Tip: Allowing the glaze to cool slightly before pouring it on the cheesecake helps it set better and prevents it from being too runny.
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Pour the blueberry glaze over the top, allowing it to run down the sides. Arrange fresh blueberries on top of the glaze.
Personal Tip: Adding fresh blueberries on top not only enhances the flavor but also makes the cheesecake visually stunning.
Make the Whipped Cream Rosettes:
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Personal Tip: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe rosettes around the top edge of the cheesecake.
Personal Tip: Piping rosettes adds an elegant finishing touch to the cheesecake.
Serve:
Chill the assembled cheesecake for an additional hour to set the glaze before serving. Enjoy this refreshing and beautiful no-bake blueberry cheesecake!
Personal Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting the cheesecake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Sugars: 28g | Total Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Sodium: 240mg | Fiber: 1g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Crust Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use digestive biscuits or other cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust. This adds variety and can often be more cost-effective depending on what you have on hand.
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Cream Cheese: For a richer taste, ensure you use full-fat cream cheese. Light versions may not set as well. This can also help maintain the classic creamy texture of a traditional cheesecake.
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Greek Yogurt: You can use flavored Greek yogurt (like vanilla or honey) for added flavor, but adjust the sugar accordingly. Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess without the heaviness of traditional cheesecake recipes.
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Glaze Alternatives: If blueberry jelly isn't available, you can use fresh blueberries cooked down with sugar and cornstarch to make a glaze. This ensures a fresh, homemade touch to your dessert.
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Layering Tips: Ensure even layers of cream and berries for a balanced taste in every bite. Use a spatula to smooth out the layers neatly, which also makes the dessert visually appealing.
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Whipped Cream: For the best results, use cold heavy cream and chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping. This helps achieve stiff peaks quickly and maintains the whipped cream's texture.
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Setting Time: Make sure to give the cheesecake enough time to set properly in the fridge, preferably overnight. This ensures the layers hold together and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Decorating: You can also garnish with lemon zest for a hint of citrus or mint leaves for added freshness. These small touches enhance both the flavor and presentation of your cheesecake.
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Serving Tips: To cut clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing the cheesecake. This prevents the filling from sticking to the knife and ensures clean cuts.
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This no-bake cheesecake can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Let’s Learn About Blueberries: Are They Sprayed? How Are They Harvested?
Blueberries are a popular fruit for many reasons—they’re delicious, versatile, and packed with nutrients. But how are they grown and harvested, and what should you know about the sprays used in their cultivation? Blueberries are often grown in large fields or farms where they are susceptible to pests, which is why some growers use pesticides. However, many consumers prefer organic blueberries, which are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Organic blueberries may be a bit more expensive, but they’re worth the investment if you’re looking to avoid chemical residues.
Harvesting blueberries is usually done by hand or with mechanical harvesters. Hand-picking ensures that only the ripe berries are selected, while mechanical harvesters can quickly gather large quantities but may also collect under-ripe or overripe berries. After harvesting, blueberries are typically sorted, washed, and packed before they make their way to your local market. Whether you choose organic or conventionally grown blueberries, it’s always a good idea to rinse them thoroughly before using them in your recipes. By understanding how blueberries are grown and harvested, you can make informed choices that suit your preferences and ensure you’re getting the best quality fruit for your delicious no-bake blueberry cheesecake.