No-Bake Double-Crust Cheesecake

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Add the Top Crust: Sprinkle and press the remaining crust mixture over the filling, possibly reserving excess. Press down firmly to compact.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.