Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake With Jam Topping

Gluten-Free No Bake Cheesecake is a fresh and delicious dessert, designed specifically for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, but suitable for the whole family. In our recipe, a crunchy base made with gluten-free cookies and melted butter is topped with a delicate cream cheese filling. After chilling in the refrigerator, the top is finished with a generous layer of fruit jam.

For this recipe, you can buy your  favorite gluten-free cookies, even cocoa ones for a nice color contrast, or you can make them at home using potato starch,  rice flour, or buckwheat flour, as desired. When choosing your ingredients, make sure the packaging bears the registered trademark of gluten free products.

What is a Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake?

While the classic cheesecake traces its origins to ancient Greece—and later evolved through Roman and European influences before becoming the iconic, cream cheese‑based New York style in early 20th‑century America, the rise of gluten‑free cheesecakes is a more recent chapter in the dessert’s evolution. The movement toward gluten‑free baking gained significant traction in the United States as awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity grew. In the early 2000s, pioneering efforts by brands such as Cherrybrook Kitchen introduced gluten‑free baking mixes to meet this demand, launching a gluten‑free line in 2005 to offer accessible alternatives for allergy‑aware dessert lovers. Simultaneously, restaurant chains like The Cheesecake Factory began rolling out gluten‑free menu items (including cheesecakes) nationwide—albeit cautiously—to align with FDA guidelines on gluten‑free labeling by around 2014. Together, these innovations helped gluten‑free cheesecakes shift from a niche offering to a mainstream dessert choice, ensuring that everyone could enjoy that rich, familiar flavor—just like in our recipe, but without the gluten.

Pro Tips for The Best Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake

• Use certified gluten-free digestive cookies or simple shortbread for the crust. Make sure they’re not too sugary or oily, as this can affect the consistency.
• Use a food processor to crush the biscuits into a uniform crumb. Combine with melted butter and press firmly into your pan to create a compact base. Chill for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.
• Cream cheese should be full-fat and softened at room temperature for easier mixing. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
• Use powdered sugar or honey for a smooth sweetness. Don’t over-sweeten—gluten-free crusts can be sweeter than traditional ones.
• Although 3–4 hours may set the cheesecake, an overnight chill enhances the flavor and texture, especially for gluten-free versions.
• Lining the bottom helps you lift the cake out easily without damaging the base or sides.

Why Is My Cheesecake Crust Crumbling?

A crumbling cheesecake crust usually means there's not enough fat (like butter) to bind the crushed cookies together, or the crumbs weren’t packed firmly enough into the pan. In gluten-free crusts, this issue is more common because they lack the natural binding properties of gluten. To fix it, increase the amount of melted butter slightly and press the mixture down firmly with the back of a spoon or glass before chilling.

Can I Flavor the Filling in Any Way?

Yes, you can absolutely flavor the cheesecake filling! Popular options include adding vanilla extract, citrus zest (like lemon or orange), melted chocolate, or fruit purée directly into the mix. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg also work well in moderation. Just be sure any added liquids or ingredients are balanced so they don’t affect the texture of the no-bake filling.

Can I Make the Filling Also Dairy Free?

Yes, you can make the filling dairy-free by using alternatives like vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, or soaked cashews blended until smooth. Pair these with dairy-free yogurt or plant-based whipping cream for a creamy texture. Just ensure your substitutes are full-fat to mimic the richness of traditional cheesecake and maintain a firm, sliceable consistency.

What Other Toppings Can I Use?

You can top your gluten-free no-bake cheesecake with a variety of delicious options: fresh fruits like berries or mango slices, fruit compotes or jams, chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even crushed gluten-free cookies.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can definitely make a gluten-free no-bake cheesecake ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after chilling overnight, as the flavors meld and the filling firms up perfectly. Add any delicate toppings, like fresh fruit, just before serving to maintain their texture.

Does It Freeze Well?

Yes, a gluten-free no-bake cheesecake can be frozen, but with some care. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Freeze without delicate toppings, which can become soggy when thawed. For best texture, thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before serving. Note that freezing may slightly affect the creamy consistency.

How to Store Any Leftovers

To store leftovers of your gluten-free no-bake cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container, then refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking slices to prevent sticking or damage.

How to Make Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake

To make gluten-free cheesecake at home, first prepare the crust: collect the dry gluten-free biscuits in the bowl of a mixer and blend them until they become a powder.

Transfer the crushed biscuits into a bowl, add the warm melted butter and mix carefully.

Spread the biscuit mixture into a 24 cm diameter springform pan, already lined with baking paper.

Compact the base well with the bottom of a glass, then put it in the fridge and let it firm up for half an hour.

Meanwhile, soak the gelatin in cold water for about 10 minutes, then squeeze it carefully and dissolve it in the hot cream. Now prepare the cream: combine the robiola and cream cheese in a large bowl, add the cream and gelatin mixture, mix carefully and let it cool.

Then sweeten with icing sugar.

Whip the ingredients with a pair of electric whisks.

At the end you should obtain a fluffy and foamy cream.

Pour the prepared cream cheese onto the now cold biscuit base and level it well with a spatula.

Place the cake in the fridge and let it set for at least 3-4 hours.

Once the resting time has elapsed, turn the cheesecake out onto a serving plate and spread a fruit jam of your choice evenly over the surface.

Enjoy!