Looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet packs a ton of flavor? Look no further! This No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake recipe combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and spiced goodness of apple butter, making it the perfect fall-inspired treat. The best part? No oven required! This recipe is ideal for those who want to create a show-stopping dessert without the hassle of baking. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to crafting this indulgent no-bake dessert that will wow your family and friends!

What is a No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake?
A No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake is a delectable dessert that blends the creamy texture of a classic cheesecake with the rich, spiced flavors of apple butter. The cheesecake is made with a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cream cheese filling, and a generous swirl of apple butter to add a burst of fall flavor. The best part? No need to turn on your oven, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion, especially when you want something delicious but easy to prepare. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this no-bake cheesecake will impress.
Ingredients List for No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake
Before you get started on this delicious recipe, it's important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a complete list to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfect.
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup whipped cream (optional)
- Extra apple butter for drizzling
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs? Here are some great substitutions and variations that you can make to this no-bake apple butter cheesecake recipe:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust. This will give you the same buttery, crunchy texture without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free Cheesecake: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream in place of the heavy cream. Be sure to also use a plant-based butter for the crust.
- Spiced Variation: For extra warmth, you can add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cheesecake filling or the crust mixture. This enhances the fall flavors even more.
- Fruit Variations: Want to try something different? Substitute the apple butter with pumpkin butter or pear butter for a delicious twist.
- Ginger Snap Crust: For a spicier, more autumnal flavor, try swapping the graham cracker crust with crushed gingersnap cookies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making this no-bake apple butter cheesecake.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a springform pan (9-inch recommended) in an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out and pack it down.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and firm up while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light and airy texture.
- Add the Apple Butter:
- Gently fold in the apple butter and cinnamon (if using) until well-mixed. You can either fully incorporate the apple butter for a homogenous filling or swirl it in for a more layered, marble-like effect.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the cheesecake filling on top. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Add dollops of apple butter on top of the cheesecake filling and use a toothpick or butter knife to create beautiful swirls.
- Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator to set for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight.
How to Cook No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Though this cheesecake requires no actual cooking, there are some important steps to ensure everything sets perfectly. Be sure to:
- Chill the Crust Properly: Allow the graham cracker crust to firm up in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.
- Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks: When whipping the heavy cream, make sure it forms stiff peaks. This will ensure your cheesecake filling has the right light and fluffy texture.
- Refrigerate for Several Hours: This cheesecake needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to properly set. Overnight is even better, so plan ahead!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Chilling Time: Don’t rush the process! The cheesecake needs to set for several hours in the fridge to firm up. Cutting into it too soon will result in a sloppy, under-set cheesecake.
- Overmixing the Whipped Cream: When folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, be gentle. Overmixing can cause the filling to lose its airy texture.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature. Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy filling, which is not ideal for a smooth cheesecake.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving a dessert as gorgeous as a no-bake apple butter cheesecake. Here are a few ideas to elevate the visual appeal of your dessert.
- Apple Butter Swirls: Before chilling the cheesecake, use extra apple butter to create elegant swirls on the surface.
- Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly dust the top of the cheesecake with ground cinnamon for a warm, inviting look.
- Whipped Cream Rosettes: Pipe rosettes of whipped cream around the edges for a professional touch.
- Garnish with Fruit: For an extra decorative touch, garnish the cheesecake with thinly sliced apples or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
How to Serve No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake
When it's time to serve this no-bake apple butter cheesecake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Slice it into neat wedges using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts to keep each slice clean.
Pair the cheesecake with a cup of hot apple cider or a chai latte to enhance the fall flavors. This dessert is perfect for holiday dinners, fall gatherings, or even as a weeknight treat.
Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake
Want your cheesecake to look as amazing as it tastes? Here are some easy ways to elevate your presentation:
- Serve on a Decorative Cake Stand: A cake stand will make your cheesecake the centerpiece of any table.
- Add a Drizzle of Caramel: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence and complements the apple butter flavor perfectly.
- Crumble Gingersnaps on Top: For a little extra crunch and visual contrast, crumble some gingersnaps or graham crackers over the top just before serving.
No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Plan Ahead: This cheesecake needs ample time to set, so make sure to prepare it the day before you plan to serve it.
- Use Homemade Apple Butter: While store-bought apple butter is convenient, making your own can add a personalized touch and give the cheesecake an even fresher flavor.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to swap out the apple butter for other fruit butters like pumpkin or peach, depending on the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze this no-bake cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! After it sets, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
2. How long will this cheesecake last in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the cheesecake will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.
3. Can I make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make individual cheesecakes using a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Just divide the crust and filling evenly between the cups.
4. Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?
Yes, feel free to get creative with the crust. Crushed gingersnaps, digestive biscuits, or even Oreos would make a fantastic base for this cheesecake.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for fall, combining the creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of apple butter. It's easy to make, requires no baking, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you stick to the
traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and start making this decadent no-bake dessert today!
PrintNo-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe
This No Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake recipe features a creamy, spiced filling made with apple butter, cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Ideal for fall desserts or holiday gatherings, it's easy to prepare and requires no baking. Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, apple butter cheesecake, easy fall desserts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter
- Cream cheese
- Apple butter
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese, apple butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Garnish with extra apple butter or cinnamon before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smoother texture.
- Refrigerating overnight helps the cheesecake to set better.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
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