Best Way to Make Easy Christmas Cheesecake Slab – no bake!

Get ready for the holidays with the easiest festive dessert ever—an Easy Christmas Cheesecake Slab – no bake! This delightful treat is perfect for holiday gatherings and will impress your family and friends. With smooth cream cheese, a buttery biscuit crust, and a luscious topping, this no-bake cheesecake recipe is both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Let’s dive into how you can create this festive favorite!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

Ingredients:

– For the crust:
– 300g digestive biscuits
– 125g unsalted butter, melted

– For the filling:
– 500g cream cheese, softened
– 200ml heavy whipping cream
– 100g powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon

– For the topping:
– 200g mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
– Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Tools:

– Baking tray (approx. 9×13 inch)
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Offset spatula or large spoon
– Plastic wrap

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
– Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
– In a large mixing bowl, crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
– Combine the crushed biscuits with the melted butter and mix until well combined.
– Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking tray to form the crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to pack it tightly.

2. Make the Filling:
– In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, and mix until well blended.
– In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, ensuring you keep it light and airy.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula.
– Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

4. Prepare the Topping:
– If using frozen berries, thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Combine with sugar and let sit for about 10 minutes to create a syrup.
– Cut the cheesecake into squares before serving and top each piece with a generous helping of mixed berries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

This Easy Christmas Cheesecake Slab – no bake! offers a delightful balance of creamy richness from the dairy and freshness from the fruits. Berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making your dessert not just delicious but also nutritious. Plus, by making a no-bake cheesecake, you skip the extensive baking process, making it a stress-free option for busy holiday schedules.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free digestive biscuits for a gluten-free crust.
– Flavor Variations: Consider adding flavors like almond or orange zest for a unique twist.
– Fruit Toppings: Use any combination of your favorite fruits like mango, strawberries, or kiwi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overmixing the Filling: It’s key to fold in the whipped cream gently to maintain the cheesecake’s light and airy texture.
– Skipping Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing the cheesecake to set properly is vital for the best results.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating, making it perfect for a quick sweet treat!

Conclusion

Indulge in the festive spirit with this Easy Christmas Cheesecake Slab – no bake! It’s the perfect dessert to share with family and friends during the holiday season. Try making it today and watch everyone come back for seconds!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone cheese is a great alternative for a lighter flavor.

3. Can I freeze the cheesecake?
While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to two months. Just wrap it tightly and store in the freezer.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream as a substitute for whipping cream.