Name: Delicious Cheesecake Fredda Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 260 min
Ingredients: 200 g Biscotti tipo "digestive" (or graham crackers); 100 g Burro fuso (melted butter); 250 g Formaggio fresco (Philadelphia) (or mascarpone cheese); 150 g Panna fresca (or heavy cream); 100 g Zucchero semolato (or agave syrup to taste); 1 tbsp Bacche di vaniglia (or vanilla extract); 5 sheets Gelatina in fogli (or agar-agar for vegetarian option); 50 ml Succo di limone (freshly squeezed); 200 g Marmellata di lamponi (or other fruit preserves)

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As the warm sun filters through my kitchen window, I can’t help but think of the delightful simplicity of a no-bake cheesecake – a true summer classic. This Easy No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake is not only a quick project you can whip up in just 20 minutes (not counting chilling time), but it also offers the irresistible perk of being light and refreshing, making it the ideal dessert for hot days. With a creamy filling nestled atop a crunchy biscuit base and a luscious raspberry topping, each bite is a delightful escape into summery bliss. Want to learn how to create this charming dessert that your loved ones will swoon over? Let’s dive in!

Why is Cheesecake Fredda a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With only a handful of ingredients and a straightforward method, this no-bake cheesecake is accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs.

Light and Refreshing: Perfectly crafted for warm weather, its creamy texture combined with a fruity raspberry topping offers a sweet respite from the heat.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap the raspberry jam with your favorites, such as strawberry or blueberry, depending on what’s in season or your personal preference.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a showstopper for summer gatherings. Guests will be coming back for seconds, maybe even thirds!

Make-Ahead Magic: Preparing this cheesecake the day before ensures its flavors meld beautifully, making your hosting duties so much easier. Consider pairing it with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch!

Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? This recipe’s delightful flavors will remind you of warm summer days, so be sure to check out my Peanut Butter Cheesecake for another easy treat that everyone will adore!

Cheesecake Fredda Ingredients

For the Biscuit Base
• Biscotti tipo “digestive” – Provides the base structure and crunch; substitute with graham crackers for a similar texture.
• Burro fuso – Adds richness and helps bind the biscuit base together; ensure it’s melted for easy mixing.

For the Creamy Filling
• Formaggio fresco (Philadelphia) – Creates the luscious, creamy filling; can be replaced with mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor.
• Panna fresca – Adds lightness and creaminess; use whipped cream or heavy cream as a delicious alternative.
• Zucchero semolato – Sweetens the cheesecake; adjust to taste, or substitute with agave syrup for a lower glycemic option.
• Bacche di vaniglia – Infuses the filling with a delightful aromatic flavor; vanilla extract is a suitable substitute, though use less.
• Gelatina in fogli – Helps set the cheesecake for a perfect slice; agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative.
• Succo di limone – Brightens the flavors; freshly squeezed juice is ideal for that vibrant zest.

For the Topping
• Marmellata di lamponi – Serves as a delicious topping for the cheesecake; switch it up with strawberry or blueberry preserves for a different fruit experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesecake Fredda

Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by crushing the biscotti tipo “digestive” (or graham crackers) into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin wrapped in a kitchen towel. Melt the butter and combine it with the crumbs, mixing thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this blend firmly into the bottom of a 22 cm springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.

Step 2: Soak the Gelatin
While the crust is chilling, soak the gelatin sheets in cold water for about 10 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Prepare a mixing bowl for the filling by ensuring it’s clean and dry. Proceed to beat the cream cheese together with the sugar, 150 g of whipped cream, and the vanilla seeds until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 3: Heat the Cream
In a small saucepan, gently heat the remaining whipped cream over low heat until it is warm but not boiling. Remove it from the heat and carefully squeeze out the excess water from the soaked gelatin sheets. Add the gelatin to the warm cream, stirring until it is fully dissolved—this critical step ensures the cheesecake fredda sets beautifully without any lumps.

Step 4: Combine Fillings
Once the gelatin mixture has cooled slightly, gradually fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to incorporate it gently to keep the filling light and airy. Mix until everything is well blended. This step is essential for creating the perfect creamy filling for your cheesecake fredda, so take your time to achieve a uniform texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
Remove the chilled biscuit base from the refrigerator and pour the creamy filling over it. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, ensuring an even layer. Cover the cheesecake loosely with plastic wrap and place it back in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow it to set properly.

Step 6: Prepare the Raspberry Topping
For the raspberry topping, place the raspberry marmellata in a small saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the flavors and stir until the mixture is warm and slightly thinned—this should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s just warm, let it cool down slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake fredda.

Step 7: Final Chill and Serve
After adding the raspberry topping, return the cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least another hour. This will allow the topping to firm up a bit and meld with the creamy filling. Once ready to serve, carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice it into servings, and enjoy this delightful cheesecake fredda with friends and family for a perfect summer treat.

Storage Tips for Cheesecake Fredda

Fridge: Store your cheesecake fredda in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: This cheesecake is served chilled, so there’s no reheating required. Just slice it straight from the fridge and enjoy!

Make-Ahead: You can prepare this cheesecake fredda a day in advance. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the big day.

What to Serve with Easy No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake

This delightful summer dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing your dining experience and bringing joy to your table.

Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings a burst of vibrant color and refreshing flavor that complements the cheesecake’s sweetness.
Mint Leaves: Topping the cheesecake with fresh mint adds a bright pop of flavor and an inviting aroma, elevating the overall presentation.
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce poured over each slice marries well with the creamy filling, adding depth and indulgence to each bite.
Lemon Sorbet: The zesty coldness of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake, making it a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Chilled herbal iced tea or a refreshing lemonade will quench your thirst and complement the fruity notes of the cheesecake beautifully.
Shortbread Cookies: These buttery, crispy cookies serve as a crunchy side that contrasts wonderfully with the smooth texture of the cheesecake.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds extra creaminess and richness, making every mouthful a luxurious delight.
Champagne or Prosecco: A bubbly sip enhances the celebratory vibe of your summer gathering, perfectly balancing the dessert’s sweetness and richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cheesecake creates a classic combination that everyone loves, bringing warmth and comfort to your dessert spread.

Expert Tips for Cheesecake Fredda

Perfect Gelatin: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved in warm cream. Undissolved gelatin can cause lumpy filling, ruining your cheesecake fredda.

Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but longer chilling (up to 6 hours) yields a firmer texture. Your patience will reward you!

Check Sweetness: Taste your filling before pouring. Adjust the sugar to your liking; remember that fruit toppings can also add sweetness.

Flexible Base Options: If you can’t find digestive biscuits, graham crackers or even crushed Oreos work nicely. Just make sure they’re finely crushed!

Topping Variations: Don’t hesitate to play around with toppings! Try fresh fruits or different jams for unique flavors that can entice any dessert lover.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time and effort during bustling summer days! You can prepare the cheesecake fredda up to 24 hours in advance by following these steps: First, assemble the cheesecake and allow it to chill until set for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once set, cover the top with plastic wrap to prevent any drying out and refrigerate it. You can also prepare the raspberry topping a day before serving—just warm the jam with lemon juice, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to finish the dish. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the raspberry topping over the cheesecake, let it chill briefly, and enjoy a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Cheesecake Fredda Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and turns, allowing your creativity to shine through this charming no-bake cheesecake recipe!

Berry Bliss: Replace the raspberry topping with freshly made strawberry or blueberry jam for a vibrant, fruity flavor.
Chocolate Indulgence: Stir melted dark or milk chocolate into the filling for a decadent chocolate cheesecake experience.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts to the biscuit base for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the filling for a fresh, zesty kick that brightens every bite.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of dairy and swap gelatin for agar-agar, ensuring a creamy, plant-based delight.
Flavorful Infusion: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or almond butter for an unexpected twist to your cheesecake filling.
Exotic Touch: For an Asian flair, use matcha powder in the filling, creating a stunning green cheesecake with earthy flavor.
Swirled Sensation: Create a marbled effect by swirling fruit puree (like passionfruit) into the cheesecake filling before it sets.

Looking for more cheesecake inspirations? You might enjoy trying my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for a fun, crispy twist or a luscious Butterfinger Cheesecake Sweet to surprise your loved ones with new flavors!

Cheesecake Fredda Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right biscuits for the base?
Absolutely! The best option for a crunchy base are biscotti tipo “digestive”, which provide a lovely texture. If you’re in a pinch, graham crackers work just as well. Ensure they are finely crushed for an even base that holds up well against the creamy filling.

How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Your cheesecake fredda can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Enjoy deliciously chilled slices during the hot summer days!

Can I freeze cheesecake fredda?
Sure thing! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture!

What do I do if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve properly?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your gelatin is lumpy, you can gently reheat the mixture over low heat while stirring continuously until it dissolves completely. Just be cautious not to boil the cream, as maintaining a low temperature is key to a smooth filling.

Can this recipe accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To cater to vegetarian diets, simply substitute gelatin with agar-agar. For those who have sugar sensitivities, using agave syrup instead of regular sugar will keep the sweetness while lowering the glycemic load. For a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese.

How do I ensure my cheesecake sets perfectly?
Great question! Make sure to allow at least 4 hours of chilling time in the fridge—or even better, overnight! This will give your cheesecake fredda the time it needs to firm up beautifully. A longer chilling time can significantly enhance the texture, making it wonderfully smooth and creamy.