No-Bake Double-Crust Cheesecake
For the Crust:
- 1 box of graham crackers (about 27 crackers), finely crushed
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the bottom of a dry measuring cup for a compact layer. Freeze the crust to set while keeping the remaining crumbs aside.
- Whip the Cream: Using a hand or stand mixer, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed for 2 minutes. Add cornstarch and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Incorporate the sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and the remaining powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is fluffy.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in the remaining half. Remove the springform pan with the set crust from the freezer.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Carefully add the filling over the crust, pressing down and smoothing the top to eliminate air pockets and ensure there is enough room for the final layer of crust.
- Add the Top Crust: Sprinkle and press the remaining crust mixture over the filling, possibly reserving excess. Press down firmly to compact.
- Chill: Cover the cheesecake with parchment paper and press down again. Wrap the pan in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Unwrap and slice the cheesecake, serving with fresh strawberries or your preferred fruit on the side.
Enjoy this creamy, rich no-bake double-crust cheesecake, perfect for any occasion or a special treat.