When it comes to desserts, there’s nothing quite like a rich and creamy cheesecake. But let’s face it, making a cheesecake from scratch can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to baking. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 delicious quick and easy cheesecake recipes for beginners! These mouthwatering treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without breaking a sweat. From classic flavors like strawberry and lemon to more decadent options like chocolate chip and caramel apple, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take you through each of these 20 cheesecake recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your dessert turns out perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these quick and easy cheesecakes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
This no-bake strawberry cheesecake recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic dessert, perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want to impress without heating up your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream and additional strawberries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add softened butter; stir until combined.
2. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
4. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Arrange sliced strawberries on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Top with whipped cream and additional strawberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake recipe is ready when you are.
Classic New York Cheesecake
This iconic dessert is a staple of American cuisine, with its creamy texture and rich flavor profile. A classic cheesecake recipe that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in blueberries and lemon juice.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Oreo Cheesecake
Rich and creamy cheesecake infused with the classic flavors of Oreo cookies. This decadent dessert is sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 20-25 cookies)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in sour cream and crushed Oreos.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake
This classic dessert combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the indulgent taste of chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in granulated sugar and chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
Warm up your fall celebrations with this creamy and aromatic Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake. The perfect blend of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this luscious raspberry swirl cheesecake, featuring a velvety smooth filling infused with the sweetness of fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the cheesecake in a spiral pattern.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Peanut Butter Cheesecake
This rich and creamy cheesecake combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and cream cheese, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a crunchy peanut butter crust and a velvety smooth filling, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat peanut butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Pour filling over crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Cream Cheesecake
Experience the ultimate combination of creamy banana goodness and rich cheesecake in this decadent dessert. This Banana Cream Cheesecake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
5. Arrange banana slices on top of cheesecake batter.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
This refreshing dessert combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea with a creamy cheesecake texture, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and matcha powder. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this scrumptious Caramel Apple Cheesecake, perfect for the fall season. The combination of tender apples, gooey caramel, and creamy cheesecake will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time. Mix in sugar, vanilla extract, and diced apples.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake batter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu Cheesecake
This Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the rich flavors of espresso, mascarpone cheese, and ladyfingers with a creamy cheesecake filling. The result is a unique dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 12 ladyfingers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar, then adding melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour espresso over ladyfingers in a separate bowl; let them soak for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the cheesecake: layer crust, cheesecake mixture, and ladyfingers. Repeat two more times, ending with cheesecake on top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set.
7. Let it cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Key Lime Cheesecake
A tangy and sweet treat that combines the zesty flavor of key lime with a creamy cheesecake, perfect for a sunny day or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Velvet Cheesecake
Impress your friends and family with this stunning red velvet cheesecake, featuring a velvety brown crust and a creamy, tangy filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; add melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mango Cheesecake
This refreshing cheesecake combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of a classic cheesecake, perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave something light and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mango puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add sugar, mango puree, and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
4. Pour batter into crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until center is set.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. Release springform pan sides; slice and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cookies and Cream Cheesecake
Experience the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and crunchy cookies with this indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add heavy cream and crushed Oreos. Mix until well combined.
6. Pour batter into crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cherry Cheesecake
This classic dessert combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. With its creamy texture and vibrant color, this cherry cheesecake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup cherry pie filling
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press crumb mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over crust; drizzle with cherry pie filling.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until center is set.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
White Chocolate Cheesecake
Experience the creamy richness of white chocolate in a velvety cheesecake that’s sure to please any crowd. With its smooth texture and subtle sweetness, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Melt white chocolate chips and fold into cheesecake batter.
6. Pour mixture into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Coconut Cheesecake
Experience the tropical flavors of coconut and cream in this creamy and rich cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, coconut, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Espresso Cheesecake
This rich and creamy cheesecake combines the bold flavors of espresso with a velvety texture, perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. With its deep brown color and subtle bitterness, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of cheesecakes! This article presents 20 delicious and easy-to-make cheesecake recipes perfect for beginners. From classic flavors like Strawberry and New York to creative twists like Oreo, Pumpkin Spice, and Matcha Green Tea, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering treats require minimal effort and can be prepared in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, these quick and easy cheesecake recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
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