This Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake blends a crunchy biscuit base with a smooth, creamy Nutella-infused filling, making every bite a luscious and satisfying treat. The rich hazelnut chocolate flavor melds perfectly with the light cream cheese texture, offering a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Ideal for those who want a quick, fuss-free dessert with gourmet flair, this cheesecake requires no baking, making it perfect for warm days or last-minute celebrations. You can customize it with extra chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a drizzle of Nutella on top for an elegant presentation that will impress family and friends alike.
Full Recipe:
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200g (7oz) digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
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100g (3.5oz) unsalted butter, melted
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600g (21oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
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3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
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1 cup (300g) Nutella
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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Extra Nutella or chocolate shavings for decoration (optional)
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, combine crushed biscuits and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly into the base of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan to form an even crust layer. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
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Fold in the Nutella carefully, creating a marbled effect if desired, or mix thoroughly for an even color.
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Pour the cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until set.
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Before serving, decorate with extra Nutella swirls or chocolate shavings if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 10
Introduction to Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake
Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the beloved, hazelnut-chocolate spread Nutella. This dessert has rapidly gained popularity for being both decadent and incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no baking, which makes it perfect for any home cook, whether novice or experienced. The silky smooth texture of the cheesecake paired with the crunchy, buttery biscuit base creates an indulgent yet balanced experience that satisfies cravings without the fuss or heat of the oven.
Why Choose a No-Bake Cheesecake?
One of the biggest advantages of a no-bake cheesecake like this Nutella version is its simplicity and speed. Traditional cheesecakes often require time-consuming baking and precise temperature control to avoid cracks or overcooking. With a no-bake recipe, you skip the oven entirely and rely on chilling time to set the dessert perfectly. This method is especially convenient during hot weather or when you’re short on time but still want to impress guests with a homemade dessert.
The no-bake technique also tends to produce a lighter texture compared to baked cheesecakes, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer, mousse-like mouthfeel. It’s also more forgiving, as it’s harder to over-mix or ruin the consistency. The Nutella adds a wonderful depth of flavor, turning a classic dessert into a chocolate-hazelnut dream.
The Perfect Biscuit Base
The base of this cheesecake is made from crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers mixed with melted butter, which is then pressed firmly into the pan. This layer provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling, and the buttery, slightly sweet flavor perfectly complements the rich Nutella cream. You can easily customize the base by adding finely chopped nuts, cocoa powder, or even a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and complexity.
The crust also plays a crucial role in holding the cheesecake together. Pressing it firmly into the pan ensures a solid foundation that won’t crumble when you slice the cheesecake. Chilling the base before adding the filling helps it set properly, creating a firm, cohesive layer that supports the luscious topping.
The Cream Cheese Filling with Nutella
The heart of this dessert is the creamy Nutella-infused filling. It starts with softened cream cheese, which gives the cheesecake its signature tang and richness. The addition of powdered sugar sweetens the mix just enough without overpowering the flavor, while the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt balance and enhance the overall taste.
Heavy cream whipped to soft peaks is folded into the cream cheese mixture, adding air and lightness. This technique creates a fluffy, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the denser base. The Nutella is then gently folded in, either swirled for a marbled effect or fully incorporated for an even chocolate-hazelnut flavor throughout.
This filling doesn’t require baking or complex temperature control — the magic happens during chilling, which firms up the cheesecake to the perfect sliceable consistency. The result is a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert bursting with the beloved flavors of Nutella.
Customization and Serving Suggestions
One of the great things about this Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake is how easy it is to customize and dress up for any occasion. You can add a variety of toppings, such as chocolate shavings, chopped toasted hazelnuts, fresh berries, or a drizzle of additional Nutella to elevate the visual appeal and add texture.
For a more festive touch, try sprinkling crushed Ferrero Rocher chocolates or swirling in some caramel or salted caramel sauce. If you prefer a lighter finish, a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder can add elegance without extra sweetness.
This cheesecake is perfect served chilled, and it pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, espresso, or even a glass of dessert wine for an indulgent finale to any meal.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth filling. Whip the cream just until soft peaks form to keep the filling light without it becoming too stiff or grainy.
When pressing the crust, take your time to make an even, firm base — this will help the cheesecake hold its shape better when slicing. Allow ample chilling time, preferably overnight, to ensure the cheesecake is completely set and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
If you want to create a marbled Nutella effect, fold the Nutella gently at the end instead of mixing it fully into the cream cheese mixture. This creates a gorgeous swirl pattern that looks impressive when served.
Why Nutella?
Nutella is one of the most beloved spreads worldwide, famous for its perfect balance of creamy hazelnuts and rich cocoa. Incorporating it into a cheesecake is a genius way to marry the creamy, tangy nature of the cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavor of Nutella, creating a dessert that feels both familiar and indulgent.
Nutella’s popularity also makes this cheesecake a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially among chocolate lovers and fans of no-bake desserts. It taps into the comfort food category while still feeling sophisticated enough for special occasions.
Dietary Considerations
While this cheesecake is rich and indulgent, it can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute gluten-free biscuits for the base. If dairy is a concern, there are cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives made from plant-based ingredients that can be experimented with to create a vegan-friendly no-bake cheesecake.
Sugar substitutes can be used for a lower-sugar dessert, although this may slightly alter texture and taste. The no-bake nature also makes it a good option for those without access to an oven or for anyone looking for a simple dessert solution.
Conclusion
Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that blends convenience with decadence. Its easy preparation, rich flavor, and creamy texture make it a perfect choice for casual family treats or elegant dinner parties. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to making cheesecakes, this no-bake version is almost foolproof and sure to impress.
This recipe demonstrates that luxurious desserts don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of chilling time, you can enjoy a luscious chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake that rivals those from your favorite patisserie. Perfectly balancing rich, creamy textures with a crunchy base, it’s a dessert that satisfies cravings and delights the senses every time.
Add this Nutella No-Bake Cheesecake to your repertoire and you’ll have a go-to dessert that everyone will love — guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet moments to any table.