No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake
Are you in the mood for a delicious dessert that doesn’t require baking? The No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake is the perfect choice! This cheesecake combines delightful flavors of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla—all in one treat. It’s easy to make, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake is an excellent option for anyone who wants something sweet without the hassle of baking. It is also perfect for those with dietary restrictions, as it can be made vegan and gluten-free. With its creamy texture and vibrant colors, it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!
How to Make No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 300g digestive biscuits (gluten-free if needed)
- 150g dairy-free butter/margarine
- 2 1⁄2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 200g cashew nuts (soaked overnight)
- 500g dairy-free/vegan cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 60g Flora Plant Double Cream
- 100g icing/powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons strawberry jam
- Pink food gel/natural color (e.g., beet powder)
- 150g dairy-free dark chocolate
- 100ml Flora Plant Double Cream
- 100ml Flora Plant Double Cream (for decoration)
- Ice-cream cones (gluten-free if needed)
Directions:
Method (Base):
- Prepare the Cake Tin: Line the base of an 8” loose-base cake tin with greaseproof paper.
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the dairy-free butter over low heat until fully melted. Remove from heat and transfer to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Make the Base Mixture: Blend the digestive biscuits and cocoa powder in a food processor until fine. Pour the biscuit crumbs into the melted butter and mix until it resembles wet sand.
- Press the Base: Press the mixture into the lined tin, compacting it firmly and also pressing it up the sides of the tin.
Method (Cheesecake Filling):
- Prepare Cashews: Drain the soaked cashew nuts and place them in a food processor/blender with the dairy-free cream cheese, vanilla extract, Flora Plant Double Cream, and icing sugar. Blend on high speed for about 5 minutes until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Divide the Mixture: Split the mixture in half. Flavor one half with strawberry jam and add a dot of pink food gel or natural coloring.
- Layer the Cheesecake: Pour the strawberry mixture over the base and smooth it out. Tap the tin on the counter to remove air bubbles. Refrigerate overnight to set before adding the vanilla layer.
- Chill the vanilla mixture in a bowl in the fridge while the strawberry layer sets, then whip it up again to smooth.
- Set the Layers: Once the strawberry layer is set, pour the vanilla layer on top and smooth it out. Chill again overnight.
Method (Ganache):
- Make the Ganache: In a saucepan, combine the dark chocolate and Flora Plant Double Cream. Heat on low/medium while stirring until smooth and glossy (about 4-5 minutes). Allow to cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake.
- Smooth the Ganache: Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to smooth the ganache over the top of the cheesecake.
Decorations:
- Whip the Cream: In a stand mixer or with a handheld whisk, whip the Flora Plant Double Cream until thick and holding peaks (about 5 minutes).
- Add Cream to Cheesecake: Use an ice-cream scoop to place whipped cream on top of the cheesecake, inserting an ice-cream cone to resemble an ice-cream.
- Finish with Chocolate Drizzle: Decorate with a chocolate drizzle and fresh strawberry slices.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors!
How to Store No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake
Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container. If you have some left over, make sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out.
Tips to Make No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake
- Soak the cashew nuts overnight to get the best texture.
- Use fresh strawberries blended for a more natural flavor instead of strawberry jam.
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Variations
You can swap the flavors! Try adding mango puree instead of strawberry for a fruity twist or use a different type of chocolate for the ganache for a whole new flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake is perfect to make a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge.
2. Can I use regular cream cheese instead of dairy-free?
You can use regular cream cheese if you do not have dietary restrictions. The texture and flavor will still be delicious!
3. How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
The cheesecake is set when the layers are firm to the touch and the edges pull away slightly from the sides of the tin.
Enjoy making and eating this delightful No-Bake Neapolitan Cheesecake! Perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat on a cozy night in.