Creamy No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

The Perfect No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe for Fall Magic

Creamy no-bake pumpkin cheesecake promises a delightful autumn dessert without turning on the oven.

Seasonal spices dance through smooth cream cheese layers, creating magic in every bite.

Cold ingredients blend seamlessly into a dreamy, silky mixture.

Graham cracker crusts provide a perfect crisp foundation for rich pumpkin goodness.

Fall flavors emerge with each decadent spoonful, whisking you into cozy kitchen memories.

Sweet simplicity meets elegant dessert crafting in this straightforward recipe.

You’ll adore how quickly this incredible treat comes together with minimal effort.

Dive into this dessert and let seasonal comfort warm your heart.

FAQs

  • Can I use graham crackers instead of gingersnap cookies for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers for gingersnap cookies. The crust will be slightly less spicy but still delicious and will work perfectly with the pumpkin cheesecake.

  • Is pumpkin pie spice necessary, or can I make my own?

You can easily make your own pumpkin pie spice by mixing ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. If you don’t have these spices, use whatever warming spices you have on hand to capture a similar flavor profile.

  • How can I tell if my cheesecake is set and ready to serve?

The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and not wobble when gently shaken. After chilling for 4-6 hours, it will have a solid, creamy texture.

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Everyone Will Love

  • Craft Quickly: This no-bake dessert saves precious kitchen time without sacrificing flavor, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results without complicated steps.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: The combination of creamy cheesecake and warm pumpkin spices creates a universally loved treat that appeals to both kids and adults at family gatherings or holiday parties.
  • Minimal Technique Required: Even beginner bakers can master this recipe with simple mixing and no complicated baking techniques, making it an approachable dessert for anyone wanting to impress without stress.
  • Seasonal Sensation: Celebrates autumn flavors with pumpkin and spices, transforming a classic cheesecake into a festive fall favorite that brings cozy comfort to any table.

Ingredients Needed for No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Gingersnap Cookies: Classic spicy cookies that create a flavorful base for the cheesecake.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the cookie crumbs and create a solid crust foundation.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides the rich, creamy texture essential to cheesecake.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds seasonal flavor and beautiful orange color to the dessert.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Delivers classic autumn spices that complement the pumpkin flavor.
Whipping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a light and airy texture when whipped and folded into the filling.

How to Craft the Perfect No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Step 1: Create Crumbly Cookie Base

Grab your favorite gingersnap cookies and crush them into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl and mix thoroughly with the cookie crumbs until they stick together.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer. Pop the pan into the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Pumpkin Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until it becomes smooth and silky. Add in:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Blend everything together until the mixture is completely uniform and free of lumps.

Step 3: Fold In Fluffy Whipped Cream

Using a clean electric mixer, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, cloudlike peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture, creating a light and airy texture.

Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream while mixing.

Step 4: Chill and Set the Cheesecake

Pour the pumpkin filling over the chilled cookie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.

Step 5: Serve and Delight

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator, release the springform pan, and slice into beautiful wedges.

Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your creamy, no-bake pumpkin cheesecake!

Secrets to a Smooth No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

  • Select gingersnap cookies with robust flavor for a more intense crust base that enhances the overall dessert profile.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure smooth blending without lumps and create a silky-textured filling.
  • Gently fold whipped cream into pumpkin mixture to maintain its airy consistency and prevent deflating the volume.
  • Chill cheesecake for minimum 6 hours for best texture and flavor development, allowing ingredients to set perfectly.
  • Garnish with extra whipped cream, sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, or crushed gingersnap cookies before serving for added visual appeal and crunch.

Exciting Takes on No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

  • Gluten-Free Crust Swap: Replace gingersnap cookies with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Delight: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream, and swap butter for coconut oil in the crust.
  • Low-Carb Pumpkin Treat: Create a nut-based crust using crushed pecans or almonds, and use a sugar substitute like erythritol instead of regular sugar.
  • Spice Adventure: Experiment with different spice blends like cardamom and ginger, or add a dash of bourbon for an adult-friendly flavor profile.

Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

  • Harvest Gathering Centerpiece: Arrange slices on a rustic wooden board surrounded by cinnamon sticks, mini pumpkins, and fall leaves for a stunning seasonal presentation.
  • Friendsgiving Dessert Bar: Create a DIY cheesecake station with extra toppings like caramel drizzle, candied pecans, and whipped cream so guests can customize their slices.
  • Cozy Afternoon Treat: Pair a slice with a warm mug of spiced apple cider or pumpkin latte for the ultimate autumn comfort experience.
  • Elegant Dinner Finale: Garnish with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice and a small dollop of whipped cream, then serve on individual dessert plates with a delicate fork.

Best Practices for Storing No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Keep the cheesecake refrigerated for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays covered with plastic wrap or in a sealed container.
  • Avoid freezing the cheesecake as the texture may become watery and lose its creamy consistency when thawed.
  • Reheat individual slices gently by letting them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore the smooth, velvety texture.
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Creamy No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Creamy No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe


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4.8 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

This delectable no-bake pumpkin cheesecake combines creamy textures with autumn spices for a delightful dessert. Chilled and easy to prepare, the recipe offers a perfect treat that satisfies sweet cravings without turning on the oven.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) gingersnap cookies
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, melted

Flavor and Texture Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Pulverize gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs, then blend with melted butter until fully combined and compact.
  2. Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety and free of lumps, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Incorporate pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, and warming pumpkin pie spice into the cream cheese, blending until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
  5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape when the whisk is lifted.
  6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin cream cheese mixture, maintaining the airiness and creating a light, fluffy texture.
  7. Transfer the filling onto the chilled crust, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a polished surface.
  8. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing it to set completely and develop rich flavors.
  9. Before serving, release the springform pan’s sides and slice the cheesecake into elegant portions.

Notes

  • Ensure gingersnap cookies are finely crushed for a smooth, compact crust that holds together perfectly.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps and achieve a silky, creamy texture in the filling.
  • Gently fold whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture to maintain its light, airy consistency without deflating.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute gingersnap cookies with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour-based crust.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Refrigerating
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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