I absolutely love this No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe because it delivers that perfect creamy texture without ever needing to turn on the oven. It’s wonderfully rich with layers of pistachio goodness and smooth white chocolate, making it an impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to throw together. Whenever I crave something fancy yet fuss-free, this cheesecake has become my go-to—and I’m sure you’ll find the same.
This recipe works especially well for warm days or when you’re short on time but still want to wow your guests with a delightful treat. The no-bake aspect saves you from the long waiting times and tricky baking temperatures, which I used to struggle with until I discovered this approach. Whether it’s for a casual get-together or a special celebration, this No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe can fit right in and shine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Elegant: No oven needed, so you can whip it up anytime without heat stress.
- Flavorful Pistachio Twist: A punch of nutty pistachio that’s balanced beautifully with creamy white chocolate.
- Versatile Serving: Perfect for parties, afternoon coffee, or whenever that sweet tooth calls.
- Family Favorite: Once I served this, my family kept asking me to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe is chosen to create the perfect balance of creamy texture and that unmistakable pistachio flavor. When shopping, try to choose quality pistachio spread and fresh cream cheese for the best results.
- Digestive biscuits (graham crackers): These create a classic crunchy yet buttery base that pairs perfectly with nuts.
- Pistachios: Use fresh or roasted for added texture and that authentic nutty flavor.
- Melted butter: Helps bind the base together for a firm crust that holds up well.
- White chocolate: Adds a smooth sweetness that compliments the pistachio’s earthiness.
- Pistachio spread: This is the star ingredient that infuses the cheesecake with rich pistachio flavor.
- Cream cheese: Provides the rich and creamy foundation for the filling.
- Double cream: Whipped to perfection for lightness and volume in the filling.
- Unsweetened plain Greek yoghurt: Gives just the right tang to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla bean paste: Elevates all the flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
Variations
I love making this No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe my own depending on the season or what I have in the pantry. You can easily tweak it to suit different dietary preferences or flavor profiles while keeping the creamy goodness intact.
- Vegan Version: I’ve swapped cream cheese and double cream for plant-based alternatives, and it turned out surprisingly lush and nutty.
- Added Citrus Zest: Adding a bit of lemon or orange zest brightens the pistachio and chocolate beautifully.
- Extra Crunch: Mixing in crushed pistachios or toasted almonds into the base adds an amazing texture contrast.
- Chocolate Variation: For a richer dessert, try dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the topping.
How to Make No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Crafting the Perfect Crust
Start by crushing those digestive biscuits either in a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and rolling over with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs. Add the pistachios and pulse a few times to break them into small chunks—not dust—to keep some texture. Then, combine these with the melted butter until every crumb is coated. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a lined 20cm (8-inch) springform pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Pop it into the freezer to set while you prepare the filling—this quick firming step ensures a sturdy crust that won’t get soggy later.
Step 2: Mixing the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, pistachio spread, and vanilla bean paste with a hand mixer until smooth and combined. Slowly add in the melted white chocolate and Greek yoghurt, mixing thoroughly—don’t forget to scrape down the sides to incorporate everything evenly. In a separate bowl, whip the double cream until soft peaks form, which means when you lift the beaters, you see little slightly droopy peaks. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture; folding gently here keeps the filling light and airy. Pour this luscious filling over your chilled crust and smooth out the top.
Step 3: Freezing and Setting
Place the cheesecake in the freezer for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best if you can wait. This slow freezing lets the flavors marry and the texture set perfectly firm yet creamy. When you’re ready to enjoy, take the cheesecake out and let it defrost gradually in the fridge overnight, or if you’re short on time, leave it out at room temp for about an hour before chilling for another 3 hours. This step is key for getting that sliceable yet melt-in-your-mouth result.
Step 4: Making the Glossy Pistachio Topping
To finish, melt the white chocolate, pistachio spread, and double cream together over simmering water, stirring gently until completely smooth and glossy. Let it cool enough so it’s safe to touch but still pourable—whisk regularly to stop it from setting too quickly. Pour this heavenly glaze over your cheesecake, spreading evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for extra crunch and pop it back in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the topping set. That shiny finish really elevates this dessert and makes it totally irresistible!
Pro Tips for Making No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe
- Don’t Overmix Your Filling: Folding the whipped cream gently keeps the cheesecake light; overmixing can make it dense.
- Use High-Quality Pistachio Spread: A good-quality paste really makes the flavor pop, trust me on this one.
- Press Crust Firmly: This stops the base from crumbling or falling apart when slicing.
- Let the Topping Cool Properly: Pouring the glaze too hot can melt your filling, so patience pays off here.
How to Serve No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top the cheesecake with extra chopped pistachios—not just for the crunch but to amp up that pretty green color that just screams pistachio goodness. Sometimes, I add a light dusting of edible gold dust or some fresh mint leaves to give it a celebratory touch, especially when serving for guests.
Side Dishes
Since this cheesecake is rich, I like pairing it with fresh berries or a tangy raspberry coulis that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. A cup of espresso or a light, floral tea also balances the dessert and rounds off the experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to serve slices on pretty dessert plates layered with edible flowers or drizzle a delicate white chocolate pistachio sauce around the plate. Another fun twist is turning this cheesecake into individual parfait cups layered with crumbled crust and fresh fruit—it’s a hit at dinner parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge once it’s fully defrosted. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and I always notice that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld.
Freezing
If I’m making this ahead, I freeze the cheesecake in the springform pan, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. It stays great for up to 2 weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days.
Reheating
This cheesecake doesn’t require heating. Instead, I let it defrost slowly in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving to maintain that creamy, chilled texture that’s so refreshing.
FAQs
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Can I use regular cream instead of double cream in this No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe?
Regular cream usually has a lower fat content and might not whip up into the firm peaks needed, so I recommend using double or heavy cream for that perfect airy texture in the filling. If you can’t find double cream, chill the cream very well and whip it gently—it might work, but results can vary.
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How long does it take for the cheesecake to set properly?
For the best texture and sliceability, freezing the cheesecake for at least 6 hours is essential, but I usually let it set overnight. This gives it time to firm up fully and develop the rich, creamy consistency that this recipe is known for.
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Can I substitute the pistachio spread with another nut butter?
You can try almond or hazelnut butters, but the flavor will shift significantly from pistachio’s distinct nutty taste. I personally love the unique flavor that pistachio spread gives, so I recommend sticking with it if possible for an authentic experience.
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What’s the best way to defrost the cheesecake?
The slow defrost in the fridge overnight is the best approach—it helps the cheesecake maintain its creamy texture without becoming soggy or too soft. If you’re in a hurry, letting it sit at room temperature for about an hour before chilling for a few hours also works well.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe has become one of my favorites because it’s both indulgent and surprisingly simple to make. I love sharing it with friends and family, knowing it’ll bring smiles and compliments around the table without hours of fussing over the oven. If you’re looking to try something uniquely delicious that feels fancy but is totally achievable, I truly recommend giving this recipe a go—you might just find it becoming your new dessert classic!
PrintNo Bake Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (includes freezing time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Western
Description
This no-bake pistachio cheesecake combines a crunchy digestive biscuit and pistachio base with a creamy pistachio and white chocolate filling. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for those who want an elegant dessert without the hassle of baking. The silky topping of white chocolate and pistachio spread, finished with chopped pistachios, makes this cheesecake a luxurious treat that’s best served chilled.
Ingredients
For the base:
- 180 gr digestive biscuits (graham crackers)
- 20 gr pistachios
- 80 gr melted butter
For the cheesecake:
- 150 gr white chocolate, melted
- 150 gr pistachio spread
- 280 gr cream cheese
- 250 gr double cream
- 150 gr unsweetened plain Greek yoghurt
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
For the topping:
- 80 gr white chocolate
- 80 gr pistachio spread
- 55 ml double cream
- 30 gr chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Crush the digestive biscuits using a food processor or place them in a bag and crush with a rolling pin. Add the pistachios to the food processor and pulse a few times to break them into small pieces, but not to dust. Alternatively, chop pistachios finely with a knife.
- Mix the base: Combine the crushed biscuits and pistachios with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 20 cm (8 inch) springform pan lined with baking paper. Place the base in the freezer to firm up while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, vanilla bean paste, and pistachio spread with a hand mixer until smooth and combined. Add the melted white chocolate and Greek yoghurt, then mix again thoroughly, ensuring to scrape the bottom of the bowl.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the double cream with a mixer until medium peaks form—when the peaks hold shape but are slightly soft.
- Fold cream into filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture until fully combined without deflating the cream.
- Assemble and chill: Remove the base from the freezer and spread the cheesecake filling evenly on top. Return the cheesecake to the freezer and let it set for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
- Defrosting options: For best results, defrost the cheesecake slowly in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, take it out of the freezer and leave it at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
- Prepare the topping: Gently heat the white chocolate, pistachio spread, and double cream in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is glossy. Allow the topping to cool until it is safe to touch, whisking occasionally to prevent setting.
- Finish the cheesecake: Pour the cooled topping evenly over the cheesecake, spreading with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios if desired. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the topping before serving.
Notes
- Use a food processor for the base for best texture, but crushing biscuits by hand works fine.
- Make sure to gently fold in whipped cream to keep the cheesecake light and airy.
- Allow ample freezing time for best texture—overnight is preferred.
- If in a hurry, use the faster defrost method but results will be less creamy.
- Chopped pistachios on top are optional but add great texture and flavor.
- Use high-quality white chocolate and pistachio spread for the best taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg