Creamy, spiced, and oh-so-easy to prepare, this No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe is a must-have for your fall dessert table. With a crunchy gingersnap crust and a luscious pumpkin cheesecake filling studded with chocolate chips, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that delivers festive flavor without turning on the oven.
If you loved our Pumpkin Pie Bars or No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake, this holiday twist will quickly become your new seasonal staple. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or whenever you’re craving a sweet slice of fall.
What is No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake?
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is a chilled dessert made with cream cheese, pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, and warm spices, all layered over a spiced gingersnap cookie crust. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this no-fuss cheesecake is love at first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Here’s why this cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert:
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No baking required: Perfect for busy holiday prep.
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Spiced and creamy: Pumpkin and cinnamon perfection.
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Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for prepping in advance.
This dessert combines convenience with indulgence.
How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
Quick Overview
Make a gingersnap crust, whip up the creamy filling, and chill—it’s as simple as that!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
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2 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
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2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
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2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup canned pumpkin puree
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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12 oz Cool Whip, thawed
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1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Make the Crust: In a food processor, pulse gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs. Mix in melted butter with a fork until well combined.
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Press into Pans: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottoms of two pie plates. Set aside.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes), scraping the sides as needed.
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Add Pumpkin & Spices: Mix in pumpkin puree, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.
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Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold in thawed Cool Whip and chocolate chips.
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Fill the Crusts: Divide the cheesecake mixture evenly between the two prepared crusts.
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Chill to Set: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, until firm.
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Serve & Enjoy: Slice, serve chilled, and garnish with whipped cream or extra chocolate chips if desired.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cheesecake
Serve slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of crushed gingersnap cookies. Pair with coffee, chai, or hot apple cider for the perfect fall treat.
Top Tips for Best Results
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Use full-fat cream cheese: For the richest texture.
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Chill thoroughly: This cheesecake needs time to firm up.
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for extra warmth.
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Switch up the crust: Graham crackers or Biscoff cookies also work great.
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Use mini pans: Make mini versions in ramekins or jars for easy individual servings.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap well and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin? Yes, just make sure it’s well-puréed and not watery.
Can I substitute whipped cream for Cool Whip? Absolutely, use an equal amount of homemade stabilized whipped cream.
Can I make this ahead? Yes, it’s best when made a day in advance!
Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
Is it too sweet with chocolate chips? Not at all—the chocolate adds a lovely richness, but you can omit them if preferred.
Conclusion
This No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, spiced pumpkin flavor with a hint of indulgence from the chocolate chips. It’s easy, elegant, and just right for holiday gatherings or casual fall feasts. Make it ahead, chill, and savor every smooth, spiced bite.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
- 2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 12 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Pulse gingersnap cookies in a food processor into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter until combined.
- Press crust mixture evenly into the bottoms of two pie plates. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
- Add pumpkin, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix until well incorporated.
- Fold in Cool Whip and chocolate chips gently until smooth.
- Divide filling between crusts. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight, until firm.
- Serve chilled with whipped cream or additional chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
You can substitute graham crackers or Biscoff cookies for the gingersnap crust. This cheesecake can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge or frozen for longer storage.