The Most Divine No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe Ever

Creamy nanaimo bar cheesecake brings together two beloved Canadian desserts in one irresistible treat.

Layers of buttery graham cracker crust promise pure indulgence.

Chocolate ganache adds a decadent touch that melts in your mouth.

Silky custard cream filling creates a dreamy texture that whispers pure comfort.

Cool and rich, this no-bake wonder saves you time without sacrificing flavor.

Sweet memories of childhood favorites dance across each delectable bite.

No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Sweet Success

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up this decadent dessert without turning on the oven, saving time and energy while avoiding complex baking techniques.
• No-Stress Chilling Method: Simply layer and refrigerate each component, allowing the cheesecake to set perfectly without requiring advanced culinary skills or constant monitoring.
• Crowd-Pleasing Indulgence: Combine beloved flavors of chocolate, coconut, and creamy cheesecake that appeal to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend treats.
• Flexible Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the entire dessert in advance, storing it in the refrigerator up to 2 days before serving, which eliminates last-minute dessert stress and allows for convenient entertaining.

Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake No-Bake Ingredients

• Graham Cracker Crumbs, Shredded Coconut, Cocoa Powder: Crisp base with rich chocolate and nutty undertones, providing texture and depth of flavor.
• Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar: Binding agents that help the crust hold together and add sweetness.

• Cream Cheese: Smooth, creamy foundation that creates the classic cheesecake texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a silky consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides lightness and helps create a fluffy, airy texture.

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Rich chocolate layer that adds decadence and visual appeal.
• Heavy Cream: Helps create a smooth, glossy ganache topping.

No-Bake Nanaimo Cheesecake Steps

Step 1: Craft The Crunchy Base

Mix together graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and cocoa powder in a large bowl.

Pour in melted butter and sugar, blending until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a compact foundation.

Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it set for half an hour, allowing the base to become firm and solid.

Step 2: Whip Up The Creamy Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until silky smooth.

Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to mix until the texture becomes light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a cloud-like filling.

Carefully spread this luxurious layer over the chilled crust, ensuring an even distribution.

Return the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill for two hours to set perfectly.

Step 3: Pour The Decadent Chocolate Topping

Warm heavy cream in a saucepan until it’s steaming but not boiling.

Pour the hot cream over chocolate chips in a separate bowl.

Allow the mixture to rest for two minutes, then stir until it transforms into a glossy, smooth ganache.

Slowly pour the chocolate over the cheesecake layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Place the dessert back in the refrigerator for another one to two hours to allow the chocolate to set completely.

Step 4: Slice And Savor

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator.

Carefully release the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate.

Slice into beautiful wedges and serve chilled.

Indulge in this luxurious no-bake dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and a crunchy coconut crust.

No-Bake Nanaimo Cheesecake With Tips for Even Layers

• Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even crumbs for a uniform and stable crust that holds together beautifully.
• Ensure heavy cream is very cold before whipping to achieve maximum volume and stability in the cheesecake layer.
• Let chocolate mixture cool slightly before pouring to prevent melting the cheesecake layer and create a smooth, glossy finish.
• Allow sufficient chilling time between layers to help them set properly and develop rich, distinct flavors.
• Warm a sharp knife under hot water and wipe dry before cutting to create clean, beautiful cheesecake slices.

Keep Nanaimo Cheesecake Cold And Creamy

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month for later enjoyment.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly defrost and preserve its creamy texture.
• Remove from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance the flavors.

Serving Ideas for No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake

• Pair with Bold Coffee Companions: Rich, dark roast coffee or espresso cuts through the sweetness and complements the chocolate ganache layer, creating a perfect flavor balance.
• Enhance with Dessert Wine Delight: Late harvest Riesling or Port wine matches the creamy cheesecake's richness, offering a delightful sweet-on-sweet experience that elevates each bite.
• Create Textural Contrast with Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds or macadamia nuts on top to add crunch and nutty depth, providing a delicious counterpoint to the smooth cheesecake layers.
• Match with Creamy Beverage Buddies: Smooth Irish cream liqueur or cold milk create a luxurious accompaniment that softens the dessert's intense chocolate and cream flavors.

Nanaimo Cheesecake Bars with No-Bake Sweet Layers

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free chocolate chips for the ganache layer.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream. Select dairy-free chocolate chips for the ganache.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use dark chocolate with minimal sugar content for the ganache layer. Reduce overall sweetness while maintaining rich flavor.
• Nutty Variation: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the crust layer. Sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the ganache for extra crunch and depth of flavor.

FAQs

• What are Nanaimo Bars?

A traditional Canadian dessert from Nanaimo, British Columbia, typically consisting of three layers: a crumb-based base, custard-flavored middle layer, and chocolate topping. This cheesecake version reimagines the classic dessert with a creamy cheesecake twist.

• Is this recipe difficult to make?

Not at all! It’s a no-bake dessert that requires simple mixing and layering techniques. No baking means less stress and more enjoyment. Most home cooks can easily make this recipe with basic kitchen tools.

• Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can swap graham crackers with digestive biscuits, use different types of chocolate for the ganache, or replace coconut with crushed nuts if desired. The recipe is quite forgiving and adaptable to personal preferences.

• How long does this cheesecake need to set?

The total chilling time is around 3-4 hours. Each layer requires chilling: 30 minutes for the crust, 2 hours for the cheesecake layer, and 1-2 hours for the chocolate ganache to set completely.

No Bake Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Nanaimo Bar Cheesecake blends Canadian dessert magic with creamy cheesecake elegance, creating a no-bake masterpiece. Chocolate, custard, and graham cracker layers promise indulgent bliss for sweet-toothed explorers seeking delightful culinary adventure.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) granulated sugar

Flavor and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Create a textured base by mixing graham cracker crumbs with shredded coconut, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
2. Press the crumbly mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, compacting it with the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass.
3. Refrigerate the crust for approximately half an hour to allow it to set and become firm.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.
5. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
6. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, creating a voluminous texture.
7. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, maintaining its airy consistency.
8. Carefully spread the cheesecake layer over the chilled crust, ensuring an even distribution.
9. Return the pan to the refrigerator and allow the cheesecake to set for two hours.
10. For the ganache, warm heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer.
11. Pour the hot cream over chocolate chips and let it sit undisturbed for two minutes.
12. Stir the mixture until it becomes completely smooth and glossy.
13. Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer, tilting the pan to create an even coating.
14. Refrigerate for an additional 1-2 hours until the ganache is fully set.
15. Release the springform pan, slice into elegant portions, and serve chilled.

Notes

• Optimize crust texture by thoroughly mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted butter for a compact, even base.
• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a silky-smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
• Use high-quality chocolate chips for a rich, glossy ganache that sets beautifully and enhances overall flavor profile.
• Modify for dietary restrictions by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives and using dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 363
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 170 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 67 mg