Apple Butter Cheesecake {No Bake} Recipe

No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe for Effortless Indulgence

Sweet memories dance through my kitchen whenever I whip up this smooth, creamy apple butter cheesecake that skips the oven entirely.

Childhood echoes whisper from each delectable slice, reminding me of lazy autumn afternoons.

Crisp apples mingle with rich, velvety cream cheese in a dessert that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

Graham cracker crumbs create a delightful foundation for this no-bake marvel that comes together in minutes.

Seasonal spices weave their magic, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Minimal effort yields maximum flavor, making this recipe perfect for spontaneous sweet cravings.

You’ll fall in love with how effortlessly decadent this dessert feels – pure comfort on a plate.

Grab a fork and let the culinary adventure begin!

Why Apple Butter Cheesecake No Bake Is a Fall Dream

  • Zero oven time makes this no-bake cheesecake a breeze to create, perfect for novice bakers wanting a stress-free dessert experience without complicated techniques.
  • Featuring warm apple butter and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this recipe captures autumn's essence in every delightful, creamy bite that feels like a comforting hug.
  • Prepare this dessert in advance and chill for minimum 4 hours, allowing busy home cooks to plan ahead and enjoy a stunning dessert without last-minute kitchen stress.
  • Blending classic cheesecake smoothness with rich apple butter creates a unique dessert that appeals to both traditional and adventurous palates, making it ideal for gatherings and potlucks.

What You’ll Need for Apple Butter Cheesecake No Bake

Crust Components:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base for a crisp and sweet foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the graham cracker base.
Filling Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides the creamy, tangy core of the cheesecake, best when softened to room temperature.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a smooth filling texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and helps create a fluffy cheesecake texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Apple Butter: Signature ingredient that gives a deep, concentrated apple flavor with warm spice undertones.
  • Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the apple butter and add depth to the dessert.
Topping Elements:
  • Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy finish to the cheesecake.
  • Additional Apple Butter: Provides an extra layer of rich apple flavor on top.

How to Build Apple Butter Cheesecake Without Baking

Step 1: Craft the Crunchy Base

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in graham cracker crumbs. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle sugar into the crumbs. Mash and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Use your fingertips to create an even, compact layer. Pop the pan into the refrigerator to chill while you work on the magical filling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, unleash your mixer to transform cream cheese into a silky smooth mixture. Blend in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the texture becomes dreamy and luscious. Gently fold in whipped heavy cream, creating a cloud-like consistency.

In a separate bowl, mix:
  • Apple butter
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg

Swirl the spiced apple butter mixture into the cream cheese base, creating mesmerizing marbled patterns.

Step 3: Build Your Cheesecake Masterpiece

Carefully spread the apple butter cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating a perfectly even surface. Slide the pan into the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 4 hours, allowing the magic to happen.

Step 4: Create the Crowning Glory

Once the cheesecake has set, generously spread a layer of apple butter across the top. This adds an extra burst of apple-cinnamon goodness.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife. Crown each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon.

Expert Tips for Apple Butter Cheesecake No Bake

  • Prevent Soggy Crust: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a compact base that won't crumble when serving.
  • Smooth Cream Cheese Technique: Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to avoid lumps and achieve a silky, creamy texture.
  • Control Apple Butter Swirl: Gently fold apple butter mixture to create beautiful marbled patterns without overmixing the cheesecake filling.
  • Chill for Perfect Texture: Allow minimum 4 hours refrigeration time to help cheesecake set properly and develop rich, intense flavors.
  • Garnish Like a Pro: Use fresh whipped cream and a light sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving to elevate the visual appeal and add a warm, aromatic touch.

How to Chill and Store Apple Butter Cheesecake Properly

  • Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture soggy. Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavors.
  • Keep away from strong-smelling foods in the refrigerator to prevent flavor absorption. Always use clean utensils when serving to preserve the cheesecake's integrity.

What Tastes Great With Apple Butter Cheesecake

  • Warm, spiced apple cider complements the apple butter cheesecake's rich, creamy texture and enhances the dessert's autumnal flavors.
  • A smooth caramel latte balances the cheesecake's sweetness, adding a delightful coffee undertone that harmonizes with the apple and cinnamon notes.
  • A light spiced rum cocktail with hints of nutmeg and vanilla creates a sophisticated pairing that elevates the dessert's warm, comforting profile.
  • Creamy, spiced chai tea provides a delicate counterpoint to the cheesecake, echoing its cinnamon and nutmeg undertones while offering a soothing, aromatic experience.

Ways to Add Your Own Spin to Apple Butter Cheesecake No Bake

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly crust. Use certified gluten-free ingredients throughout the recipe.
  • Vegan Version: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream, and replace butter with coconut oil. Select plant-based apple butter for a completely vegan cheesecake.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Swap granulated and powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use reduced-sugar apple butter and incorporate Greek yogurt to maintain creamy texture while cutting calories.
  • Spiced Pumpkin Variation: Replace apple butter with pumpkin puree, adjust spices to include pumpkin pie seasoning, and add a sprinkle of pecans on top for an autumn-inspired cheesecake version.
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Apple Butter Cheesecake {No Bake} Recipe

Apple Butter Cheesecake {No Bake} Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

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

Description

Sweet dreams come true with this Apple Butter Cheesecake, a creamy no-bake dessert that whispers autumn’s warmth. Layers of smooth cream cheese and spiced apple butter create an irresistible treat you won’t be able to resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (200 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar

Filling Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (450 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
  • 1 cup (240 grams) apple butter
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Topping Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (120 grams) apple butter
  • Whipped cream, for garnish
  • Ground cinnamon, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Craft a robust graham cracker foundation by blending crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing the mixture compactly into a springform pan’s base. Refrigerate the crust while preparing subsequent layers.
  2. Whip cream cheese until velvety smooth, incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Gently fold in whipped cream to create a luxurious, airy texture.
  3. Create a warm, aromatic apple butter mixture by combining the preserve with ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Delicately integrate this spiced blend into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Transfer the silky apple butter cheesecake filling onto the chilled crust, using a spatula to achieve a perfectly leveled surface. Return to refrigerator and allow to set thoroughly, approximately 4 hours.
  5. Once fully stabilized, embellish the cheesecake’s surface with an additional layer of apple butter, spreading generously for enhanced flavor complexity.
  6. Prior to serving, adorn with delicate dollops of whipped cream and a whisper of ground cinnamon, creating an elegant and inviting presentation.
  7. Slice carefully and serve chilled, allowing guests to appreciate the harmonious blend of creamy textures and autumnal spices.

Notes

  • Choose a high-quality apple butter with rich, concentrated flavor to elevate the entire cheesecake’s taste profile.
  • Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling that blends seamlessly.
  • Whip heavy cream to soft peaks before folding into the cream cheese mixture to maintain its light, airy texture without deflating.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 23g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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