This No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake is a dream for anyone who loves indulgent desserts. The combination of the silky, chocolatey filling and the crisp graham cracker crust is a match made in heaven. Topped with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts, it’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
This treat is perfect for those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth without turning on the oven. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can make a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love. Plus, the rich Nutella flavor takes this cheesecake to the next level!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons cocoa powder
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1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Nutella and mix until fully incorporated.
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In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture until smooth and well combined.
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Spoon the Nutella cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
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Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until set (overnight is best).
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Before serving, sprinkle with cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours (refrigeration time)
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why No-Bake? The Convenience of This Recipe
What makes this recipe stand out is the fact that it doesn’t require baking, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those who want to skip the oven. Baking a cheesecake traditionally requires a water bath, precise temperature control, and a long wait for it to set. However, the No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake cuts all that down to a simple refrigeration process. You get all the creamy, decadent flavor of a classic cheesecake without the complicated steps or the waiting time in the oven. Just mix the ingredients, chill, and you’re good to go!
The Richness of Nutella: A Star Ingredient
Nutella, the beloved hazelnut-chocolate spread, is the star of this recipe. Its smooth texture and sweet, nutty flavor infuse the cheesecake with a unique depth that’s difficult to resist. The hazelnut flavor blends perfectly with the richness of the cream cheese, creating a filling that’s silky smooth and just the right amount of sweet. Nutella is an iconic ingredient that adds a touch of indulgence to any dessert, and in this cheesecake, it’s the perfect complement to the base and whipped cream layers.
No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Versatility
One of the beauties of this dessert is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize and elevate it. You can mix in additional flavors, such as a touch of espresso for a coffee-chocolate twist or add a layer of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent topping. For those who want a bit of texture contrast, chopped hazelnuts or a drizzle of caramel can bring an exciting crunch or sweetness to the cheesecake. You can also swap the graham cracker crust for something different, like an Oreo crust for a chocolatey bite or a crushed almond crust for a nuttier base.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday gathering, birthday celebration, or an afternoon treat with friends, the No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake is sure to impress. It’s a dessert that suits all occasions. Because it’s easy to prepare in advance, you can make it a day or two ahead of time, saving you precious moments when you’re busy hosting. This cheesecake also works well for a variety of dietary preferences, especially when served in small individual portions or cut into neat squares for sharing. The indulgent yet balanced flavors make it an appealing dessert for kids and adults alike.
Texture and Presentation: A Feast for the Senses
One of the most attractive qualities of this No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake is its presentation. The dessert has a beautiful layered effect, with the dark, glossy Nutella filling contrasted against the light whipped cream topping. When garnished with cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts, it looks professional enough to be served at a high-end restaurant. The smoothness of the filling paired with the crispness of the graham cracker crust offers a delightful contrast in texture, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.
Make-Ahead Perfection
Since this cheesecake requires no baking, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert. In fact, it’s best when allowed to chill in the refrigerator for several hours, allowing all the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up. The beauty of making it ahead of time is that you don’t have to worry about the last-minute rush. Once it’s chilled and ready, all you need to do is garnish it with your favorite toppings and serve. This also allows you to focus on other parts of your meal preparation without stress, making it an ideal dessert for busy hosts or busy weeknights.
How to Store No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake
The No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to keep it covered so that the cheesecake doesn’t absorb any odors from other foods in the fridge. You can also freeze leftovers for a longer shelf life, but it’s best to wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying it again. Be aware that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains as delicious as ever.
The Appeal of No-Bake Desserts
No-bake desserts, like this Nutella cheesecake, have been growing in popularity in recent years due to their convenience and versatility. Unlike traditional baked goods, no-bake desserts don’t require precise temperature control, which makes them more forgiving. They also tend to be lighter and less time-consuming, making them an attractive option for busy home bakers. This cheesecake is a great example of how no-bake recipes can still deliver sophisticated, indulgent results.
Nutrition Considerations
While the No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake is undeniably rich and indulgent, it can be made lighter by making a few substitutions. For example, you can use a reduced-fat cream cheese or opt for a low-sugar Nutella version. If you’re looking to cut back on calories or avoid certain ingredients, there are alternatives you can experiment with without sacrificing flavor. However, as it is, this dessert is a treat, meant for those moments when you want to indulge and enjoy something sweet. A small slice goes a long way, satisfying your cravings for something creamy, chocolatey, and utterly delicious.
Why This Dessert Is Loved by All
It’s no surprise that this No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake has become a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. It brings together the nostalgic flavor of Nutella, the smoothness of cream cheese, and the crunch of a graham cracker crust in one glorious dessert. It’s loved for its simple preparation, rich flavor, and the ability to cater to different tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that this cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dessert
The No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake is truly a must-try dessert for anyone who enjoys rich, creamy sweets. With minimal preparation, the perfect balance of flavors, and the flexibility to customize, this dessert is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a weeknight or a show-stopping treat for a special occasion, this cheesecake fits the bill. So, gather your ingredients, mix, chill, and enjoy a dessert that’s as effortless as it is delicious. You won’t regret it!