Lazy Cheesecake Salad: The Ultimate 15-Minute No-Bake Dessert Dip

Say goodbye to complicated desserts and hello to your new favorite last-minute sweet treat: this incredibly simple Lazy Cheesecake Salad! Perfect for busy weeknights, unexpected guests, or a stress-free potluck contribution, this recipe delivers all the creamy, dreamy flavor of cheesecake without any baking or extensive chilling. Made with just 6 straightforward ingredients, it comes together in a flash and is utterly irresistible, whether served elegantly in bowls or as a delightful, decadent dip with your favorite dippers.

This effortless recipe for Lazy Cheesecake Salad is a consistent crowd-pleaser in my household. Both adults and children eagerly devour the rich, creamy layers punctuated by bursts of fruity flavor. And for me, the primary appeal lies in its astonishing simplicity and speed. Most desserts, even many no-bake varieties, typically demand a bit more time and effort to prepare. While those results are often well worth the wait, this easy cheesecake salad recipe stands out because it requires virtually no downtime. You can whip it up and serve it immediately, no chilling necessary!

So, the next time a spontaneous gathering arises, or you need a reliable dessert to take to a church potluck, a family barbecue, or a friendly get-together, you can wholeheartedly depend on this super easy recipe. Its versatility is another major bonus: present it in individual bowls with a spoon for a classic dessert experience, or pair it with an assortment of graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or fresh fruit as a delectable dessert dip that everyone will flock to.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Cheesecake Salad Recipe:

1. Unbelievably Easy to Make: This no-bake cheesecake salad is truly a marvel of convenience. It’s ready in a mere 15 minutes from start to finish, requiring absolutely no oven time. This makes it a perfect solution for hot summer days when you want to avoid heating up your kitchen, or for those times when you simply don’t have the energy for a complex baking project.
2. Perfect for Last-Minute Occasions: Whether it’s an impromptu potluck, a sudden craving for something sweet, or a dessert for an unexpected dinner guest, this recipe is your culinary superpower. Its quick preparation time and minimal ingredient list mean you can always have a stunning dessert ready to impress, even on short notice.
3. Budget-Friendly and Simple Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for obscure or expensive items to make this dessert. It calls for just 6 simple ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store, making it not only easy to prep but also wonderfully economical. Enjoy a luxurious-tasting dessert without breaking the bank.
4. Highly Customizable and Adaptable: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and flexible. You can easily adjust it to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs. With just a couple of simple swaps, you can even make it gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful treat. Explore different pie fillings, pudding flavors, and dippers to create endless variations.

Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this irresistible cheesecake salad requires only a handful of common pantry staples. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each:

• Cream Cheese: For the best results and a firm, rich cheesecake base, you will need to use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese. It is absolutely crucial that it is softened to room temperature before you begin mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency. To soften it quickly, you can let it rest on the counter for a few hours, or for a faster method, place the unwrapped brick in a plastic freezer bag and submerge it in a bowl of hot tap water for about 5-10 minutes.
• Whipped Topping: Commonly known by the brand name “Cool Whip,” this ingredient is typically found in the freezer section of your grocery store. Remember to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before use. This provides a light, airy texture and adds a delightful sweetness that helps stabilize the cheesecake base.
• Greek Yogurt OR Sour Cream: I highly recommend using a good quality vanilla Greek yogurt. Not only does it contribute a lovely sweetness and a hint of vanilla flavor, but its thickness also adds to the creamy consistency of the salad. If vanilla Greek yogurt isn’t on hand, plain Greek yogurt (you might add a touch more sugar or vanilla extract) or regular sour cream can be used as a substitute for a tangy note.
• Pudding Mix: A standard 3.4 oz box of instant vanilla pudding mix is what you’ll need. This acts as a thickener and flavor enhancer for the cheesecake base. While regular vanilla works perfectly, feel free to experiment with French vanilla, cheesecake-flavored pudding, or even banana cream pudding for a twist!
• Milk: I typically use regular whole milk for a richer, creamier result, but any style of milk you keep on hand (2%, 1%, skim) will work. For an extra touch of decadence and an even richer texture, you could even use heavy cream, which will make the base incredibly luxurious.
• Pie Filling: This is where you can truly personalize your lazy cheesecake salad! While you can certainly use homemade pie filling, utilizing canned pie filling makes this recipe incredibly quick and ultra-easy. I often choose cherry pie filling because it’s a family favorite, but the possibilities are endless. Consider apple, raspberry, blueberry, peach, or even strawberry rhubarb for varied flavors and seasonal delights.

A quick note on recipe size: The quantities listed in the recipe card are perfectly suited for a small batch, serving approximately 4-6 people, and will fit beautifully into an 8-9 inch round or square baking dish. If you’re planning to entertain a larger crowd, host a party, or wish to fill a large trifle dish or a 9×13 inch baking dish, simply double all of the ingredient quantities listed to ensure you have plenty to go around!

How to Make Lazy Cheesecake Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready for one of the easiest dessert preparations you’ll ever experience! This no-bake cheesecake salad comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

1. To get started, transfer your softened brick of cream cheese to a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer (or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer), whip the cream cheese until it is wonderfully soft, smooth, and fluffy. This step is crucial for preventing any lumps in your final dessert.
2. Next, add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream if using) and the milk to the bowl with the cream cheese. Beat everything together on a low-medium speed until the mixture is perfectly smooth and uniformly combined. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

   

3. Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly blended, pour in the entire packet of vanilla pudding mix. Continue to beat the mixture until it becomes smooth, thick, and achieves that classic pudding-like consistency. Again, scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
4. After your base mixture is perfectly blended and thickened, turn off the mixer and remove the beaters. Gently add the completely thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip) into the bowl. Using a silicone spatula, carefully fold the whipped topping into the cheesecake mixture until it is just combined and no streaks remain. The key here is to fold gently to maintain the light and airy texture.

   

5. Now it’s time to assemble! Spread this glorious cheesecake mixture evenly into your chosen serving dish. This could be an 8-9 inch round or square deep dish, or a medium-sized trifle dish if you’ve doubled the recipe for a grander presentation.

   

6. Once the cheesecake base is smoothed out, open a full can of your preferred pie filling (I used classic cherry for its vibrant color and tart-sweet flavor). Carefully spoon the pie filling over the entire surface of the cheesecake layer and spread it out evenly, reaching all the way to the edges for a beautiful, consistent topping.

   

7. The best part? You can serve this easy no-bake dessert right away! However, if you have a little extra time and prefer a slightly firmer texture and more integrated flavors, you can allow it to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours before serving. While not absolutely necessary, chilling does enhance the overall experience.

   

What Should I Serve with Lazy Cheesecake Salad?

While this cheesecake salad is undeniably delicious simply served in small bowls with a spoon, its creamy texture and rich flavor also make it an ideal dessert dip. Offering a variety of dippers on the side can elevate the experience and allow everyone to customize their perfect bite. Here are some of my top recommendations:

• Graham Crackers: The quintessential pairing, offering a satisfying crunch and a hint of honey that complements the cheesecake beautifully, mimicking a traditional cheesecake crust.
• Vanilla Wafer Cookies: Sweet, buttery, and light, these cookies provide a delicate crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture.
• Animal Crackers: A fun and whimsical option, especially appealing to younger guests, adding a simple, sweet crispness.
• Teddy Grahams: Similar to animal crackers but with a delightful graham flavor, making them another kid-friendly favorite.
• Cinnamon Pita Chips: For a more gourmet twist, these chips offer a unique sweet and savory crunch with a warming spice that surprisingly enhances the fruit and cream cheese flavors.
• Toasted Baguette Chips: Lightly toasted and subtly flavored, these chips provide a sophisticated crunch, perfect for a more adult-oriented gathering.
• Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples, strawberries, grapes, or banana slices make for a healthier and refreshing dipper, adding natural sweetness and contrasting textures.
• Pretzel Crisps: For a delightful sweet and salty combination, pretzel crisps offer a satisfying crunch and an unexpected flavor dimension.

What Type of Pie Filling Works Best with Cheesecake Salad?

The beauty of this lazy cheesecake salad is its incredible adaptability, especially when it comes to the pie filling. You truly can use whatever pie filling you and your loved ones enjoy most. While cherry and strawberry are often considered the “classic” and most popular choices for cheesecake, don’t feel limited! Each type of filling brings its own unique flavor profile and visual appeal. Here are a few fantastic options, along with notes on their characteristics:

• Cherry: A timeless classic, offering a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness with a beautiful deep red hue. Always a crowd-pleaser!
• Strawberry: Bright, sweet, and summery, strawberry pie filling provides a vibrant flavor and a lovely pinkish-red color, making it visually appealing.
• Raspberry: For those who love a bit more tang, raspberry filling offers a delightful tartness that cuts through the creaminess of the cheesecake base.
• Apple: A comforting, homey choice, especially good in the fall. Apple pie filling, often with a hint of cinnamon, creates a warm and inviting dessert.
• Blueberry: Sweet and slightly tart with a beautiful purple-blue color, blueberry filling is another excellent choice that pairs well with cream cheese.
• Peach: Mildly sweet and fragrant, peach pie filling brings a taste of summer and a soft, delicate flavor that’s wonderfully refreshing.
• Strawberry Rhubarb: A more sophisticated option, offering a lovely balance of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb for a complex flavor profile.
• Lemon: If you love citrus, a lemon pie filling can add a zesty, bright kick to your cheesecake salad, creating a refreshing dessert.

Feel free to mix and match or even create layers of different fillings for a truly personalized creation!

Variations and Smart Substitutions for Every Taste

One of the best aspects of this lazy cheesecake salad recipe is how incredibly versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to suit different preferences, dietary needs, or even seasonal flavors. Here are some fantastic ways to customize your dessert:

• Large Batch for a Crowd: The base recipe is ideal for an 8-9 inch round or square deep dish pan, perfect for a smaller gathering. However, if you’re hosting a big party, filling a grand trifle bowl, or need a dessert for a large potluck, simply double all the ingredient quantities. This ensures a substantial and impressive dessert that will easily serve a larger group.
• Making it Gluten-Free: Most of the core ingredients for this recipe are naturally gluten-free, including whipped topping, cream cheese, milk, and yogurt. To make the entire dessert gluten-free, you’ll only need to make two simple swaps: ensure you select a gluten-free version of vanilla pudding mix (many popular brands offer this, just check the label!) and choose a gluten-free pie filling (again, often readily available). Then, simply serve it with gluten-free graham crackers or your favorite fresh fruit, or enjoy it straight from a bowl with a spoon!
• Apple Caramel Cheesecake Salad: For a comforting and autumnal twist, substitute the cherry pie filling for a can of apple pie filling. To elevate the flavors even further, add a luscious layer of caramel sauce between the creamy cheesecake base and the spiced apple topping. A drizzle of extra caramel and a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top would make this truly irresistible.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Salad (Fresh or Canned): Opt for a can of sweet strawberry pie filling for a classic, summery flavor. For an even fresher and lighter version, you can chop fresh strawberries and sweeten them lightly with a tablespoon of sugar before layering them over the cheesecake base. This provides a burst of natural strawberry flavor and a delightful texture.
• Lemon Zest Cheesecake Salad: For a bright and tangy dessert, swap the vanilla pudding mix for lemon-flavored instant pudding. You could also use a lemon pie filling, or simply fold in a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest into the cheesecake base for an aromatic citrus kick.
• Chocolate Lover’s Cheesecake Salad: Transform this into a decadent chocolate treat by using chocolate instant pudding mix instead of vanilla. You can then top it with a layer of chocolate fudge sauce, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed chocolate cookies instead of fruit pie filling.
• Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Salad: Perfect for the fall season! Use vanilla or cheesecake-flavored pudding, and then blend in about ½ cup of pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice into the cheesecake base. Top with a plain whipped topping or a drizzle of caramel for a festive dessert.
• Tropical Cheesecake Salad: For a taste of the islands, consider using pineapple or mango pie filling. You could also fold in some shredded coconut or finely diced fresh tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or passion fruit pulp into the cheesecake base or as a topping.

Storage Guidelines

To keep your lazy cheesecake salad fresh and delicious, ensure it is stored properly. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or cover the serving dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate promptly, and it will remain fresh and enjoyable for up to 3 days. The airtight seal helps prevent the dessert from drying out or absorbing any odors from other foods in the refrigerator.

Making Ahead for Perfect Presentation

If you’re preparing this delightful dessert for an event or special occasion, I highly recommend making the cheesecake base a day in advance. This extra chilling time allows the base to firm up beautifully and allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even richer taste. On the morning of the event, simply add your chosen pie filling. This prevents the fruit filling from potentially “bleeding” into the creamy cheesecake layer over a longer period, ensuring that your dessert looks as pristine and vibrant as it tastes, with distinct, appealing layers.

Expert Tips for the Best Lazy Cheesecake Salad

Achieving a perfect lazy cheesecake salad every time is easy with these simple tips:

• Ensure Cream Cheese is Properly Softened: This cannot be stressed enough! Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy base that is difficult to mix smoothly. Plan ahead or use the hot water method for quick softening.
• Thaw Whipped Topping Completely: Just like the cream cheese, thoroughly thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip) will incorporate smoothly and contribute to the creamy, light texture. Partially thawed topping can leave icy bits or make folding difficult.
• Fold, Don’t Beat, the Whipped Topping: Once the whipped topping is added, switch from an electric mixer to a spatula and gently fold it in. Over-mixing will deflate the whipped topping, leading to a denser cheesecake base.
• Use Quality Ingredients: While this recipe is simple, the quality of your ingredients can make a difference. Opt for good quality cream cheese and a pie filling you genuinely enjoy the flavor of.
• Taste and Adjust: Before spreading into your dish, taste the cheesecake base. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar. A dash of vanilla extract can also deepen the flavor.
• Presentation Matters (Even for Lazy): Even though it’s a “lazy” dessert, a little effort in presentation goes a long way. Serve it in a clear glass dish or trifle bowl to showcase the layers. Garnish with a few fresh berries, a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, or a mint leaf for an extra touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving this easy cheesecake salad:

• Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?
  A: Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream, but be aware that it might not be as stable as store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) over time. Store-bought whipped topping contains stabilizers that help it hold its shape longer. If using homemade, ensure it’s very stiffly whipped.
• Q: Do I have to use Greek yogurt? Can I use regular yogurt or another dairy product?
  A: While vanilla Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness and flavor, you can use regular vanilla yogurt. If using plain Greek or regular yogurt, you might want to add a little extra sugar or vanilla extract to the cheesecake base. Sour cream is also a great alternative, providing a lovely tang.
• Q: Can I use sugar-free ingredients to make this a healthier dessert?
  A: Absolutely! Many brands offer sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix and sugar-free whipped topping. You can also find sugar-free canned pie fillings. These substitutions work well without compromising the texture, though the flavor profile might be slightly different.
• Q: Can I add mix-ins to the cheesecake base?
  A: Yes, this is a fun way to customize it! You can gently fold in ingredients like mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies (like Oreos or Nilla Wafers), shredded coconut, or even finely chopped nuts into the cheesecake base before spreading it into the dish.
• Q: How long does it take for the cheesecake salad to firm up if I chill it?
  A: If you choose to chill it, the cheesecake salad typically firms up nicely within 30 minutes to 2 hours. The longer it chills, the firmer and more set it will become.

More Easy No-Bake Desserts You’ll Love

If you enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Lazy Cheesecake Salad, be sure to explore these other fantastic no-bake dessert recipes:

• Berry Cheesecake Salad – A patriotic and fruity twist on the classic.
• No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cheesecake – All the joy of cheesecake with delightful chocolate chips, no oven needed.
• No-Bake Nutella Pie – A rich, hazelnut-chocolate dream that comes together effortlessly.
• No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars – A classic, creamy, and satisfying treat for peanut butter lovers.
• Butterscotch Haystacks – Sweet, crunchy, and incredibly easy, a nostalgic favorite.
• No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake – Courtesy of Spaceships and Laser Beams, a rich and fruity indulgence.

Lazy Cheesecake Salad

This lazy cheesecake salad recipe is the ultimate easy dessert! Made with just 6 simple ingredients, this no-bake recipe is ready in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or a quick sweet treat, and can be served as a creamy dip or in individual bowls.

5 from 2 votes

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Course:
No Bake Desserts

Cuisine:
American

Prep Time:

15 minutes minutes

Total Time:

15 minutes minutes

Servings:

6 servings

Calories:

439kcal

Author:
Dorothy Bigelow

Ingredients

• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  8 oz brick cream cheese softened to room temperature
• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  1 cup vanilla greek yogurt or sour cream
• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  ½ cup whole milk
• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  3.4 ounce package vanilla pudding mix
• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  8 ounce container of frozen whipped topping thawed
• 
  
  ▢
  
  
  21 ounce can cherry pie filling
• 
  
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  Graham crackers for serving (optional)

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

• Add the softened brick of cream cheese to a large bowl and whip it using an electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment) until it’s smooth and fluffy.
• Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and milk to the bowl, then beat everything together on low-medium speed until well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Pour in the vanilla pudding mix and beat until the mixture is smooth and thickened, ensuring no dry pudding mix remains.
• Once the base mixture is blended well, add the thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip). Gently fold it in with a silicone spatula until thoroughly incorporated and light.
• Spread this creamy mixture into your chosen serving dish (an 8-9 inch round or square deep dish, or a medium-sized trifle dish if doubled).
• Smooth the cheesecake salad base out into an even layer, cleaning up the edges if desired for a tidy presentation.
• Add a full can of the pie filling of your choice (such as cherry) and spread it out evenly over the entire surface of the cheesecake layer.
• Serve immediately for instant gratification OR allow it to chill for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator to firm up slightly, which can enhance the texture.
• Serve with fresh fruit, graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or in small bowls for a delightful dessert.

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Notes

Adapted from: Jamie’s Kitchen Blessings (no longer online)

If you’re serving a large crowd or would like to completely fill a standard trifle dish, consider doubling the recipe. The quantities listed here will fill it about halfway.

Pie filling: While cherry pie filling is featured, feel free to use your favorite! Strawberry, blueberry, apple, or peach are all fantastic options.

Storing: Store your cheesecake salad in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
serving

|

Calories:
439
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
59
g

|

Protein:
8
g

|

Fat:
19
g

|

Saturated Fat:
13
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
4
g

|

Cholesterol:
44
mg

|

Sodium:
285
mg

|

Potassium:
226
mg

|

Fiber:
1
g

|

Sugar:
27
g

|

Vitamin A:
797
IU

|

Vitamin C:
4
mg

|

Calcium:
138
mg

|

Iron:
0.3
mg

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