When the warm weather hits and the strawberries are ripe, there’s nothing quite like a Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake to celebrate the season. I remember the first time I tried making this dessert; it was a spontaneous decision during a sunny afternoon with friends. We were lounging outside, enjoying the gentle breeze, and I thought, why not whip up something light and refreshing? The joy of combining creamy cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberries created a dessert that was not only delicious but also guilt-free. As I mixed the ingredients, the laughter and chatter filled the air, making the experience even more special. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; there’s no baking involved, and the result is a cheesecake that feels indulgent without the heavy calories. It quickly became a staple for our summer gatherings, a dish that brings everyone together around the table. Every bite is a delightful reminder of sunshine and good company, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl

What We Adore About This Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

It’s Guilt-Free Indulgence

One of the things I love most about this Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is the refreshing aspect of it. By using Cool Whip Free and 1/3 less fat Philadelphia Cream Cheese, I can indulge in a rich dessert without the worry of breaking my diet. It’s the ideal treat for those who are conscious of their calorie intake but still crave something sweet.

Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and quick. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen or worry about the precision of baking. Mixing the ingredients takes just a few minutes, and chilling does all the work for you. Perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday celebration, or just a casual get-together with friends, this cheesecake fits right in. It’s light enough not to weigh you down, but sweet enough to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Fresh Fruits Bring Brightness

What I adore about this cheesecake is the addition of fresh strawberries. They not only add a pop of color but also a natural sweetness that complements the creamy filling perfectly. You can even switch it up with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries if you prefer!

Perfect for Hot Days

During those hot summer days, the last thing you want is to be stuck by a hot oven. This no-bake cheesecake allows you to enjoy a delicious dessert without heating up your kitchen. It’s a lifesaver when the temperature rises!

What You Need for Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

To make a delightful Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake, you’ll need a selection of simple yet effective ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy filling, refreshing strawberries, and the light crust work harmoniously together, making each bite a celebration of taste.

8 oz Cool Whip Free – A lighter alternative to whipped cream, it adds sweetness and a fluffy texture.
8 oz 1/3 less fat Philadelphia Cream Cheese – The core ingredient that provides the creamy base for the cheesecake.
9-inch reduced fat Graham Cracker Crust – This crust adds a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness to balance the creaminess.
1/4 cup sugar – Just a small amount to enhance the sweetness of the cheesecake.
2 tsp vanilla extract – This ingredient adds a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
12-14 strawberries, hulled and halved lengthwise – Fresh strawberries on top provide a burst of color and natural sweetness.

Instructions for Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

Making this Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is a joyous process that invites anyone into the kitchen. The steps are simple, and the outcome is incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the process of creating this delightful dessert!

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to whip these together until the mixture is fluffy and well-combined, about two to three minutes. You want it to be smooth, so make sure there are no lumps remaining.
Next, gently fold in the Cool Whip Free into the cream cheese mixture. This will give the cheesecake its light and airy texture. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to retain that fluffiness.
Once your filling is ready, take the reduced fat Graham cracker crust and spoon the cheesecake mixture into it. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth out the top.
Now it’s time to chill! Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least four hours, or until firm. This step is essential as it allows the cheesecake to set properly.
After sufficient chilling, take the cheesecake out of the fridge and arrange the strawberries on top. Make sure to place them in a decorative pattern if you want to impress your guests. The vibrant red berries will not only enhance the look but also add a wonderful freshness.
Finally, slice your cheesecake and serve it chilled. Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite with your friends and family!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling is Key: Make sure to chill your cheesecake long enough to set. If you cut it too soon, it might be too soft.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen ones can change the texture.
Mixing Technique: When folding in Cool Whip, use a gentle hand to maintain the lightness of the mixture.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a sprinkle of mint leaves or a drizzle of berry sauce for added flair!

Make It Your Own

This Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is versatile and open to personal touches. Here are some tips to make it your own!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep it fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing dessert plate.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to try different fruits like blueberries or peaches, or even add a layer of chocolate on top!
Serving Size: Consider serving in individual cups for a fun twist at parties!

How to Serve Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake

When it comes to serving your Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake, there are countless ways to make it special. Here are some suggestions:

Ideal for Summer Gatherings: This cheesecake is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics—refreshing and light!
Garnish: Consider garnishing with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Presentation: Serve it on a beautiful platter or individual cups for a charming display that catches the eye.
Accompaniments: Pair with fresh fruit or a scoop of low-fat ice cream for a complete dessert experience.
Seasonal Events: This cheesecake is also a fantastic option for celebrations like birthdays and potlucks.
Storage Tips: Always keep leftovers tightly covered to maintain freshness. If you’re serving at a party, keep it chilled until serving time to avoid melting.

FAQ

If you find that your Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake isn’t setting quite firm enough, there are a few tips you can try. First, ensure that you’re chilling it for the full recommended time, ideally overnight, is best for firmness. Additionally, you can try using a bit less Cool Whip or incorporating a small amount of cornstarch into the filling to help it stabilize. Another option is to use a lower-fat cream cheese that has a higher cream content, which can also help achieve a firmer texture.

While fresh strawberries are always recommended for this recipe to achieve the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be aware that they tend to release more liquid as they thaw, which could affect the texture of your cheesecake. If using frozen strawberries, consider draining them well and patting them dry before using them as a topping.

Cutting a no-bake cheesecake can sometimes be tricky. To make it easier, I recommend using a sharp knife dipped in warm water. After cutting each slice, be sure to wipe the knife clean before making your next cut. This method helps maintain clean edges on your slices. Additionally, chilling the cheesecake for a longer time will also help it hold its shape when slicing.

The beauty of the Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake lies in its versatility. You can customize the flavors by adding a hint of citrus zest, like lemon or lime, into the filling for a more vibrant taste. You can also swap out the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches, depending on your preference. If you want a chocolate variation, consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate on top!

Conclusion

The Low Fat Strawberry No Bake Cheesecake is truly a delightful treat that brings together the freshness of strawberries and the creaminess of cheesecake in a guilt-free way. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple yet elegant, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the joy of making and sharing this delightful dessert with your loved ones!