nilla wafer cheesecake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
nilla wafer cheesecake recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best nilla wafer cheesecake recipe

I have been making this nilla wafer cheesecake for years, and it is always a hit with my family. The kids love the crunchy vanilla wafer crust, and I love how easy it is to put together. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion like a birthday or holiday gathering. It is a no bake cheesecake, which means you do not have to turn on the oven, making it ideal for hot summer days.

The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and crunchy nilla wafers is simply irresistible. This cheesecake is not only delicious but also has some health benefits. The cream cheese provides protein and calcium, while the nilla wafers offer a satisfying crunch. You can also use low fat cream cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.

I love that this recipe is versatile and can be customized with different toppings like fresh berries or chocolate sauce. One of the best things about this nilla wafer cheesecake is how simple the technique is. You just need to crush the wafers, mix them with butter, and press them into a pan. Then you beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla, fold in some whipped cream, and spread it over the crust.

Chill it for a few hours, and you have a perfect dessert. My kids love helping me crush the wafers and spread the filling. I first tried this recipe at a potluck, and I knew I had to get the recipe. It was so creamy and flavorful, and the nilla wafers added a wonderful texture.

Since then, I have made it for countless family dinners and school events. It always gets rave reviews, and people are surprised to learn how easy it is to make. This nilla wafer cheesecake is a keeper, and I am sure you will love it as much as we do.

No Bake Nilla Wafer Cheesecake

No Bake Nilla Wafer Cheesecake

4.6 from 1672 votes

A creamy and crunchy no bake cheesecake with a buttery nilla wafer crust. This easy dessert is perfect for any occasion and requires no oven time.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

2 cups crushed nilla wafers (about 60 wafers)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Filling

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Topping (optional)

1/2 cup nilla wafer crumbs
Fresh berries or fruit sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium bowl, combine the crushed nilla wafers, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
2Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
3Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan, using the bottom of a glass to pack it down evenly.
4Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
5In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
6Add the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and the vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes more.
7Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
8In a separate cold bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream and add the powdered sugar.
9Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 to 5 minutes.
10The cream should hold its shape when you lift the beaters.
11Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula, being careful not to deflate the cream.
12Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the filling evenly over the crust.
13Smooth the top with the spatula.
14If desired, sprinkle the remaining nilla wafer crumbs on top for added crunch.
15Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the cheesecake is firm and set.
16Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then release the springform latch.
17Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices.
18Serve chilled with fresh berries or your favorite fruit sauce.

🔧Equipment

9 inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Plastic wrap

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 320mg🌾Total Carbs: 29g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter version, use reduced fat cream cheese and light whipped topping. You can also add a layer of sliced bananas between the crust and filling for a banana split twist.

Watch Video Of How No Bake Nilla Wafer Cheesecake Works

This nilla wafer cheesecake is always a good idea for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a holiday celebration. It is easy to make, requires no baking, and tastes absolutely delicious.

I love that I can prepare it ahead of time and just pull it out of the fridge when I am ready to serve. To store leftovers, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For reheating, this cheesecake is best served cold, but if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. You can also serve it with a warm berry compote or chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.

This recipe works perfectly for family gatherings because it is a crowd pleaser and can be made in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the event.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About No Bake Nilla Wafer Cheesecake

1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate cookies for the nilla wafers. Just make sure to crush them finely and adjust the butter amount to get a sandy texture that holds together.

2. How long does this cheesecake need to set in the refrigerator?

This cheesecake needs at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight is best for a firmer texture. The chilling time allows the filling to firm up and the crust to hold together when sliced.

3. Can I freeze this nilla wafer cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

4. What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?

You can use a 8 ounce container of frozen whipped topping, thawed, as a substitute for the heavy cream. This will make the filling lighter and save you the step of whipping cream.

5. How do I prevent the crust from being too crumbly?

Make sure you pack the crust firmly into the pan using the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup. Also, allow the crust to chill for at least 15 minutes before adding the filling to help it set.

Similar Posts