Easiest Lemon Cheesecake Delight (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy no-bake lemon cheesecake with a graham cracker base and zesty citrus filling.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Crust

01 - 2 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

03 - 1 package (3 oz) lemon Jell-O
04 - 1 cup hot water
05 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1/2 tbsp lemon zest
08 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
09 - 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream

→ To Decorate (optional)

10 - Whipped cream
11 - Lemon zest
12 - Lemon slices

# How to Prepare:

01 - Line the sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are moistened. Press the mixture onto the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan. Use a measuring cup to ensure even pressure. Set aside.
02 - Add hot water to a heatproof bowl with lemon Jell-O. Stir until completely dissolved, then let cool at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, or until lukewarm.
03 - Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add lemon zest and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the cooled lemon Jell-O to the cream cheese mixture in small batches, about 1/8 cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until smooth. Scrape the sides of the bowl as necessary.
05 - In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese-Jell-O mixture using a spatula until fully combined.
06 - Spread the filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
07 - Before serving, optionally decorate with dollops of whipped cream, additional lemon zest, and lemon slices. Slice and enjoy.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling without lumps.
02 - Ensure the lemon Jell-O is cool but still liquid before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
03 - To speed up the Jell-O cooling process, refrigerate briefly, but do not let it set.