No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

Craving something rich, indulgent, and ultra-creamy—but don’t want to fire up your oven? You’re not alone. A No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake delivers all the decadence of a traditional dessert without the stress of baking. Whether you’re preparing a summer-friendly treat, a last-minute party dessert, or simply want a reliable recipe for your sweet tooth, this recipe is as versatile as it is luxurious. The silky chocolate filling, paired with a crunchy cookie crust, makes this one of the most rewarding desserts you’ll ever prepare.

Compared to a classic baked cheesecake base, the no-bake version is quicker, cooler (literally!), and nearly foolproof. There’s no worrying about water baths, overbaking, or cracks. Just mix, chill, and serve. And while New York-style cheesecake lovers appreciate its density and structure, fans of No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake will swoon over its smooth, mousse-like consistency. If you’re interested in even more ways to enjoy cheesecake, check out our roundup of top cheesecake recipes you should try today, which includes unique ideas like fruit-infused and churro-inspired variations.

But what makes this dessert truly shine? It’s all about the balance of ingredients and texture. Using high-quality chocolate is crucial—you’ll want a dark or semi-sweet variety, not chips, for the richest flavor. This is where technique matters too: properly melting chocolate using a double boiler ensures a smooth, glossy ganache that blends seamlessly with your cream cheese base. If you’re unsure which chocolate to choose or how to temper it correctly, consult this guide to chocolate tempering to avoid grainy or seized results. A perfectly executed No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake isn’t just easy—it’s a showstopper.

🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything to gather before you start. Make sure ingredients are room temperature where specified.

Crust

• 25 chocolate cookies (like Oreos), crushed
• 5 tbsp melted unsalted butter

Filling

• 250g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa)
• 1½ cups heavy cream (divided)
• 3 blocks (24 oz) cream cheese, room temp
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp instant coffee (optional for flavor boost)

Optional Toppings

• Ganache: extra cream + chocolate
• Chocolate whipped cream: cream, cocoa powder, sugar
• Berries, chocolate shavings, or nuts for garnish

For ingredient quality, use full-fat cream cheese blocks (not whipped or tubs) and opt for chocolate bars over chips. Learn why the type of chocolate matters in this guide to chocolate melting and tempering.

🔪 How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Combine crushed cookies and melted butter
• Press mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan
• Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes while prepping the filling

Step 2: Make the Ganache

• Melt chocolate and ¾ cup heavy cream together in a double boiler
• Stir until glossy and smooth, then let it cool for 5–10 minutes

Tip: If you’re unsure how to use a double boiler, this Better Homes guide is handy.

Step 3: Beat the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese, sugar, and salt until smooth and fluffy
• Add the cooled ganache and beat just until combined

Step 4: Whip the Cream

• Whip the remaining ¾ cup heavy cream to stiff peaks
• Gently fold it into the chocolate-cream cheese mixture with a spatula

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

• Pour filling over the chilled crust
• Smooth the top with a spatula
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight

Why This Cheesecake Works

• No gelatin needed
• Creamy but firm texture
• No risk of cracking (unlike baked versions)
• Easy to customize with toppings

It’s the best combination of indulgence and simplicity — just like the ultra-decadent churro cheesecake with a twist.

Optional Toppings and Variations

Take your no-bake dessert to the next level with these add-ons:

Ganache Topping

• Warm ½ cup cream + 100g chocolate until melted
• Pour over chilled cheesecake for a glossy finish

Chocolate Whipped Cream

• Whip 1 cup cream, ¼ cup sugar, and 2 tbsp cocoa powder

Creative Variations

• Add a peanut butter swirl before chilling
• Garnish with caramel drizzle or sea salt flakes
• Swap Oreos for Biscoff or graham crackers

Want something even more experimental? Try a fruit layer like in our fruit-infused cheesecake.

Dietary Modifications

🌱 Vegan Version

• Use vegan cream cheese (almond or cashew-based)
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream
• Choose dairy-free dark chocolate

⚖️ Keto/Low-Carb Version

• Almond flour + butter crust
• Erythritol instead of sugar
• Heavy cream + mascarpone filling

🌾 Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free cookies for the crust

Expert Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the cream cheese
• Cool the ganache before adding to avoid melting cream cheese
• Always chill overnight for best texture
• Use a hot knife for clean slices

Mistakes to avoid? Using milk chocolate (it won’t set properly), overwhipping cream, or rushing the chill time.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: 5–7 days in an airtight container
• Freezer: Up to 1 month (wrap tightly in plastic + foil)
• Make-ahead: Assemble the day before an event — just decorate before serving

Serving Ideas

Make this dessert the highlight of any occasion:

• Serve with espresso or wine
• Add a drizzle of raspberry coulis for color
• Pair with chocolate-dipped strawberries
• Turn it into mini cheesecakes using a muffin tin

If you’re a fan of rich and dense cheesecake, you’ll also enjoy our New York-style version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

We recommend dark chocolate for structure. Milk chocolate may not set well.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

Cream cheese is essential here. You can substitute with mascarpone or a vegan version.

How long does it need to chill?

Minimum of 6 hours, but overnight yields the best texture.

Can I freeze the whole cheesecake?

Yes! Wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Does it taste like baked cheesecake?

It’s lighter and silkier, but still rich and indulgent.

Final Thoughts

No-bake chocolate cheesecake is the perfect combination of convenience and decadence. With just a few ingredients and some patience while it chills, you’ll end up with a dessert that’s worthy of any celebration — or just a quiet night in.

So whether you’re craving something sweet or impressing guests, this no-bake chocolate dream will quickly become your favorite dessert.