No Bake Blackberry Cheesecake

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

Layers of buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese, and tangy blackberry form a truly decadent dessert. This chilled creation features a simple crust pressed into a baking dish, topped with a light, airy mixture that blends whipped cream and cream cheese for lush texture. A simmered blackberry topping, rich with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, is poured over once set. The result is a refreshing crowd-pleaser that celebrates ripe seasonal fruit and creamy goodness without any oven time—perfect for warm days or effortless entertaining. Prep ahead for easy serving and enjoy any time!

Barbara Chef
Updated on Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:19:40 GMT
A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. Pin it
A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. | gracefulflavors.com

No Bake Blackberry Cheesecake is the kind of dessert I turn to when I want something impressive without having to fuss with an oven or worry about cracks. Creamy layers of slightly tangy cheesecake meet a quick homemade berry sauce that looks as lovely as it tastes. The buttery graham crust comes together in minutes and the whole thing sets beautifully in the fridge while you go about your day.

My family always requests this for Fourth of July picnics so I know it never fails to wow. The best part is sneaking a spoonful of the creamy filling while waiting for it all to chill.

Ingredients

  • Fresh blackberries: provide bright flavor and juicy texture Choose plump berries that look firm and deep purple
  • Granulated sugar: sweetens both crust and topping I lean toward fine baking sugar for easy mixing
  • Vanilla extract: adds warm bakery notes A quality vanilla really shines in a no-bake treat
  • Ground cinnamon: gives a little warmth to the topping Look for spice that smells fragrant when you open the jar
  • Water and cornstarch: turn the fresh berries into a lush sauce Use fresh cornstarch for best thickening power
  • Cream cheese: is the heart of the filling Go with full-fat blocks for luxe texture
  • Powdered sugar: blends smoothly with the cream cheese and adds sweetness Choose one without caking agents if possible
  • Sour cream: brings tang and keeps the filling light and creamy Try to avoid ultra-thick Greek style
  • Heavy whipping cream: creates volume and a mousse-like texture Chill your bowl and beaters for the highest peaks
  • Graham cracker crumbs: form the easy buttery crust Crush them yourself for best texture or use a trusted brand
  • Salted butter: holds the crust together and brings out all the flavors A fresh stick gives the richest taste and color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crust:
Stir together graham cracker crumbs with sugar until well mixed Melt salted butter and mix it into the crumbs so the mixture resembles wet sand and every crumb is moistened
Press Into Pan:
Using a firm touch press the crust evenly over the bottom of a nine by thirteen pan Get the corners even and the surface smooth so the filling sits flat Freeze for at least ten minutes to firm it up
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture:
Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar vanilla and sour cream until silky with no lumps Scrape down the bowl so everything incorporates
Whip the Cream:
Pour cold heavy cream into a chilled bowl Use a mixer and beat until stiff glossy peaks form Stop before it turns grainy to keep the texture light
Combine Fillings:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese base Use a spatula and a light hand to keep the mixture airy Stop as soon as everything looks blended
Spread and Chill:
Evenly smooth the filling over the chilled crust I like using an offset spatula for sharp corners Let it chill at least four hours so it sets firm and slices cleanly
Make Blackberry Topping:
Combine blackberries sugar vanilla cinnamon water and cornstarch in a saucepan Cook over medium heat stirring constantly until berries burst juices thicken and you have a glossy jam-like sauce Cool completely to room temperature
Finish and Serve:
Spread the cooled blackberry topping over the firmed cheesecake Slice with a damp knife to get neat pieces Serve chilled for the dreamiest texture
A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. Pin it
A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. | gracefulflavors.com

My favorite part is the way the vanilla and warm cinnamon round out the blackberries on top It reminds me of berry picking with my grandmother who would let me eat as many as I could sneak off the vine

Storage Tips

This cheesecake keeps well refrigerated for up to three days If you need to store it longer the filling and the topping can be frozen separately Defrost the filling overnight in the fridge before assembling and wait to add the berries until just before serving for best flavor and texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap in frozen blackberries for fresh just thaw them fully and drain excess juices Mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries also work Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter result and gluten free graham crackers create an allergy friendly crust

Serving Suggestions

For a striking presentation sprinkle extra fresh blackberries or lemon zest over each slice Serve with a generous cloud of whipped cream or pair with iced tea or lemonade for a summery finish Small squares make ideal bites for a dessert buffet or family potluck

A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. Pin it
A slice of cheesecake with blackberries on top. | gracefulflavors.com

Cultural and Historical Context

No bake cheesecakes found popularity in the middle of the twentieth century as an easier fresher alternative to dense baked versions This recipe blends American comfort with a nod to European berry desserts The blackberry topping brings out nostalgia for old fashioned fruit preserves on summer cakes and pastries

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get a firm crust that doesn't crumble?

Mix melted butter thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs and sugar, then press the mixture firmly and evenly across the dish. Firmly chill or freeze before adding the filling for best results.

→ Can I use frozen blackberries for the topping?

Yes, frozen blackberries work well. Use them directly from the freezer; add a few extra minutes to the simmering step to account for chilling.

→ What's the secret to a smooth, airy filling?

Beat the cream cheese mixture until smooth, and separately whip the cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture without overmixing to keep the filling light.

→ How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?

Both filling and topping can be made ahead. The assembled dessert keeps chilled for up to 3 days, while components may be frozen for longer storage.

→ Are there alternative spices for the blackberry layer?

Cinnamon adds warmth, but you can experiment with nutmeg or ground coriander for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I serve neat slices?

Chill thoroughly before slicing. Use a clean, sharp knife rinsed with hot water between cuts for the cleanest presentation.

No Bake Blackberry Cheesecake

Velvety cream cheese, ripe blackberries, and graham cracker crumb combine for a blissful chilled dessert.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Barbara


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 slices)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Fruit Topping

01 4 cups fresh blackberries (about 24 oz)
02 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
03 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
04 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 1/2 cup water
06 5 tablespoons cornstarch

→ Filling

07 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 packages, 8 oz each)
08 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
09 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 1/3 cup sour cream
11 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

→ Graham Cracker Crust

12 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
13 1/2 cup granulated sugar
14 3/4 cup salted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.

Step 02

Press the graham cracker mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the dish in the freezer for several minutes to firm up the crust while you prepare the filling.

Step 03

In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream until completely smooth and combined.

Step 04

In a chilled bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

Step 05

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care to retain the aeration.

Step 06

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface.

Step 07

Place the assembled cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or in the freezer for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the filling to set.

Step 08

In a medium saucepan, combine blackberries, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, water, and cornstarch. Stir to combine and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Step 09

Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blackberries have broken down and the sauce has thickened to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and cool completely.

Step 10

Spread the cooled blackberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake filling. Cut into individual squares and serve.

Notes

  1. The cheesecake filling can be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
  2. The blackberry topping may be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  3. Frozen blackberries or a mixture of berries can be substituted if fresh are unavailable.
  4. Cinnamon can be omitted or replaced with other warming spices such as coriander or nutmeg.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Standing or handheld mixer
  • Medium saucepan
  • Offset spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy from cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and butter.
  • Contains gluten from graham cracker crumbs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 532
  • Total Fat: 29 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 68 g
  • Protein: 3 g