Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-bake cheesecake offers a fun and creative way to celebrate while indulging in a creamy, cool dessert. The easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy party hosts or those looking for a quick yet impressive treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a fun patriotic twist, it’s both a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese
1/2 cup white sugar
2+ cups cool whip
Red and blue gel food dye
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup each red, white, and blue candy melts
2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoothing the candy melts)
Patriotic sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Line and grease a 6-inch springform pan.
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and freeze for 10 minutes while preparing the cheesecake filling.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and combined. Fold in the cool whip until just mixed.
Divide the cream cheese mixture into three bowls. Add red food dye to one, blue to another, and leave the third white.
Remove the graham cracker crust from the freezer and add spoonfuls of the colored cheesecake filling randomly across the crust.
Use a spatula to smooth the filling. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
In small bowls, melt the candy melts separately in the microwave. Stir until smooth, adding shortening or coconut oil if needed.
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, smooth the edges with an offset spatula.
Drizzle the cooled candy melts over the cheesecake, then sprinkle with patriotic sprinkles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours

Variations

Fruit topping: Add fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity burst.
Crust options: Try a chocolate cookie crust for a twist on the classic graham cracker base.
Different colors: Use food dyes to create other color schemes for different holidays.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: No need to reheat this dessert; it’s best served cold. Just take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How long does the cheesecake need to set in the fridge?

The cheesecake should set for at least 2 hours in the fridge to firm up properly.

Can I use a different kind of crust?

Yes, you can use a chocolate cookie crust or even a gluten-free crust if preferred.

Can I skip the candy melts and sprinkles?

Yes, you can skip these decorations or replace them with fresh fruit or whipped cream on top.

What size pan do I need?

A 6-inch springform pan works best for this recipe, but you can adjust based on the size of your party.

How can I make the cheesecake even more patriotic?

Try adding more red and blue decorations or using fruit in red, white, and blue colors.

Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this cheesecake is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin.

Can I use a different type of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute cool whip with homemade whipped cream if desired.

How do I remove the cheesecake from the pan easily?

Run the edges of the springform pan under warm water to loosen the sides before removing the cheesecake.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Patriotic Cheesecake is a show-stopping, simple dessert that’s perfect for any patriotic celebration. With its festive colors and deliciously creamy texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next party or holiday gathering. Enjoy the holiday spirit with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to eat!

No Bake Patriotic Cheesecake

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chill time)
Yield: 8-10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This No Bake Patriotic Cheesecake is a festive and easy dessert featuring red, white, and blue layers perfect for the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any celebration. With a creamy no-bake cheesecake filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, it’s both eye-catching and delicious—ideal for summer gatherings and patriotic parties.

Instructions

Line and lightly grease a 6-inch springform pan.
Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into pan. Freeze for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gently fold in cool whip.
Divide mixture into 3 parts: color one red, one blue, and leave one white.
Spoon dollops of each color onto the crust and smooth out evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Melt each color of candy melts separately, adding shortening if needed for a smoother consistency.
Once the cheesecake is set, remove from the pan and smooth edges.
Drizzle with candy melts and top with patriotic sprinkles.
Chill until ready to serve.