This Martha Stewart No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe is a smooth and creamy dessert, which uses sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice. It’s a no-fuss take on the classic cheesecake, perfect for make-ahead entertaining or weeknight cravings.
Martha Stewart No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe Ingredients
- 2 packages (20 sheets) graham crackers
- 11 tablespoons (1⅜ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (about 1¼ cups)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Martha Stewart No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe
- Crush the graham crackers: Place graham crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form.
- Mix and press the crust: Transfer crumbs to a bowl. Stir in sugar, then melted butter. Mix until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and 1½–2 inches up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Freeze for at least 10 minutes.
- Beat the cream cheese: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk: Gradually beat in the condensed milk, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure it’s fully combined.
- Add the lemon juice and vanilla: Beat in the lemon juice and vanilla extract until the mixture is fully smooth.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill to set: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 2½ to 3 hours.

Recipe Tips
- How long does it take to set?
At least 2½ to 3 hours in the refrigerator. - Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust works in a pinch. - Can I make it lemon-free?
You can reduce or omit the lemon juice, but it adds balance to the sweetness. - What toppings go best with this cheesecake?
Try fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. - How do I keep the filling smooth?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating.
What To Serve With No-Bake Cheesecake
This dessert pairs well with:
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries
- Lemon curd or fruit compote
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Coffee or espresso

How To Store No-Bake Cheesecake
Refrigerate: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
No-Bake Cheesecake Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~385 per slice
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 27g
- Sugar: 22g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but it may affect the texture and richness.
Can I use lemon extract instead of juice?
Lemon juice is best for acidity and structure, but extract can add flavor.
Does it really need to chill for 3 hours?
Yes, chilling is crucial for the cheesecake to firm up properly.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes, use muffin tins with cupcake liners for individual servings.
Do I need gelatin for this recipe?
No gelatin needed—sweetened condensed milk and chilling set the filling.
Try More Recipes:
- Martha Stewart Lemon Cookies Recipe
- Martha Stewart Snickerdoodles Recipe
- Martha Stewart New York Cheesecake Recipe
Martha Stewart No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe
Description
Creamy no-bake cheesecake made with lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk, chilled in a graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers in a bag with a rolling pin. Mix with sugar and melted butter.
- Press mixture into a springform pan and freeze for 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add condensed milk.
- Add lemon juice and vanilla. Mix until fully smooth.
- Pour into crust and smooth the top. Cover and chill for 3 hours before serving.
