If you’re craving a dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate with the luxurious creaminess of cheesecake, you’ve just found your next obsession: the BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. This beauty is delightfully smooth, impossibly easy, and perfect when you want an indulgent treat without heating up the oven. It’s perfect for impressing friends or indulging on a cozy night in, and the no bake magic means you can enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth texture with minimal effort. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to dessert for all occasions.

BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple is the secret to success for the BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the buttery cookie crust that adds crunch and depth to the rich chocolate and creamy filling that make every bite heavenly.

25 Oreos or chocolate creme cookies (~285g): These create the perfect chocolatey crust that holds everything together with a satisfying snap.
5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (~70g): Butter binds the crumbs into a firm, buttery base, giving it that classic cheesecake texture.
250g dark chocolate: Use good-quality dark chocolate to give your cheesecake that luxurious, intense cocoa flavor.
1 ½ cup heavy cream, chilled (360g), divided: Whipped cream lightens the filling, creating a smooth and fluffy texture.
24 oz cream cheese, room temperature (680g): Cream cheese provides the signature tangy and creamy backbone of the cheesecake.
1 cup granulated sugar (200g): Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
½ tsp salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s richness.
Optional 1 teaspoon instant coffee: Adds depth and intensifies the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Ganache for decoration (optional): ½ cup heavy cream (120g) and 100g chocolate—your choice of dark, semi-sweet, or milk—to drizzle for an elegant finish.
Chocolate whipped cream for decoration (optional): 1 cup heavy cream (240g), ¼ cup sugar (50g), 3 tbsp sifted cocoa powder (25g) to top your cheesecake for that extra chocolaty kick.

How to Make BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by prepping a 9-inch springform pan—lightly brush it with butter and optionally line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release. Next, pulse your Oreos or chocolate cookies with the melted butter in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to create a solid, flavorful base. Pop it into the fridge so it can set up while you get started on the filling.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate for the Filling

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and ¾ cup of the chilled heavy cream. If you’re using instant coffee, add it here too—it cleverly enhances the chocolate without turning your cheesecake into a mocha. Set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (double boiler method), making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir patiently until the chocolate melts into a glossy, smooth ganache, then remove it from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Whisk Cream Cheese and Sugar

While the chocolate cools slightly, grab a large bowl and beat the cream cheese with granulated sugar and salt on medium speed until velvety and smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of your bowl to ensure everything is well combined—that way your cheesecake will be perfectly even.

Step 4: Combine Ganache and Cream Cheese

Pour the cooled ganache into the cream cheese mixture and mix gently on medium-low speed. You want everything just combined to keep the filling luscious and silky. Be sure to scrape the bowl once more to bring everything together perfectly.

Step 5: Whip the Remaining Cream and Fold

Whip the remaining ¾ cup of chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this takes a few minutes but is so worth it for that light, fluffy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. This delicate folding step keeps your filling airy and smooth.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in your springform pan. Smooth the surface gently with a spatula, then refrigerate your masterpiece for at least six hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time is essential to let the cheesecake set and develop its signature texture and flavor.

Step 7: Optional Toppings

If you want to take your BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake over the top, prepare a quick ganache by melting cream and chocolate together and pouring it warm over the cold cheesecake. Follow with a swirl of chocolate whipped cream made by whipping heavy cream with sugar and cocoa powder. These garnishes add extra richness and an elegant touch.

How to Serve BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

Garnishes

Top your cheesecake with fresh raspberries, shavings of dark chocolate, or sprinkles of cocoa powder to elevate its look and flavor. If you’ve made the optional ganache and chocolate whipped cream, a gentle drizzle and a generous dollop will wow your guests and deepen the chocolate experience.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or a bright berry compote that cuts through the richness. A light vanilla bean ice cream or even a cup of espresso on the side will complement it perfectly, turning it into a full dessert extravaganza.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cheesecake slice on a pretty plate with an artistic drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Add edible flowers or crushed nuts for texture and color. Another fun idea is to serve mini versions in jars or glasses for a charming party presentation. The BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake is versatile and stunning, no matter how you present it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cheesecake stored in the fridge, tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert that rewards your patience with every bite.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this cheesecake well in advance, freeze it without the optional whipped cream topping. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent ice crystals. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and add fresh toppings afterward.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating needed! Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance its creamy texture and release its full chocolate aroma.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter, milder flavor that’s still delicious. Just keep in mind the richness and depth won’t be quite as intense as with dark chocolate.

Do I need special equipment to make this cheesecake?

No special tools are required—just a food processor for the crust, basic mixing bowls, a whisk or electric mixer, and a springform pan. It’s a straightforward recipe for all skill levels.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the Oreo crust with gluten-free chocolate cookies or any gluten-free biscuit you like. Just make sure the cookies don’t contain gluten if that’s a dietary concern.

What if I don’t have instant coffee?

You can skip the instant coffee if you don’t have it on hand. It’s optional but highly recommended because it enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.

How long can this cheesecake be left at room temperature?

Since it contains dairy, it’s best not to leave the cheesecake out for more than two hours. Keep it chilled until right before serving for the best taste and safety.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the BEST No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake: it combines ease, elegance, and incredible flavor in one spectacular dessert. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, this cheesecake will steal the show and bring a smile to everyone’s face. So go ahead, give it a try—you deserve an indulgent slice of chocolatey happiness with zero baking stress.