Go Back

Summer Desserts — No Bake Summer Dessert Nobody Expects - Cool, Creamy, and Easy

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Cookies for the crust: 10 ounces graham crackers or digestive biscuits (shortbread or vanilla wafers also work)
  • Butter: 6 tablespoons unsalted, melted
  • Cream cheese: 12 ounces, softened
  • Greek yogurt: 1 cup, plain (or sour cream)
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup, cold
  • Sugar: 1/2 cup granulated (plus 1 tablespoon for berries, optional)
  • Powdered sugar: 1/3 cup (for stability and smoothness)
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon + 3 tablespoons juice
  • Vanilla extract: 1 1/2 teaspoons
  • Mixed berries: About 3 cups (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan: Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment so the edges hang over for easy lifting. For individual servings, use 8–10 small jars or glasses.
  2. Make the crust: Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or a zip-top bag and rolling pin. Stir in the melted butter and a pinch of salt until the mixture feels like damp sand.
  3. Press and chill: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the pan to form an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it well. Chill while you make the filling.
  4. Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar to soft peaks. Set aside.
  5. Beat the base: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes. Add Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, remaining powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until silky.
  6. Fold it together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions. Don’t overmix—keep it airy.
  7. Layer the filling: Spread the cheesecake mousse over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Prep the berries: Slice strawberries if using. Toss all berries with 1 tablespoon sugar if you want extra juiciness, or leave plain for a fresher bite.
  9. Add the fruit: Spoon the berries evenly over the mousse. Press lightly so they nestle without sinking.
  10. Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably 4–6, until the layers are firm enough to slice cleanly.
  11. Serve: Lift from the pan with the parchment, slice into squares, and serve cold. For jars, just spoon and enjoy straight from the fridge.