Greek Yogurt Cheesecake (no-bake and without gelatin!)

Greek Yogurt Cheesecake (no-bake and without gelatin!) is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 189 calories per serving. Recipe by How To Cook Smarter on YouTube.

Prep: 35 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 75 min

Cost: $9.84 total, $1.23 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.25 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (use whole oats; can pulse in processor for finer texture)
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 0.5 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 2 tablespoons Milk (any dairy or plant‑based milk)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Applesauce
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (pure maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (melted)
  • 2 cups Greek Yogurt (full‑fat, strained) (plain, full‑fat; strain overnight in cheesecloth)
  • 0.25 cup Honey (liquid sweetener)
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream (chilled)
  • 1 cup Frozen Blueberries
  • 0.25 cup Water
  • 0.5 tablespoon Maple Syrup (for blueberry sauce)

Instructions

  1. Combine Crust Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl combine the rolled oats, cornstarch, baking powder, milk, applesauce, maple syrup, and melted butter. Stir until a cohesive dough forms.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Roll and Cut the Dough

    Place two sheets of parchment paper on a flat surface, spread the dough between them, and roll with a rolling pin to about 1/4‑inch thickness. Cut into circles that fit your pie pan using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Bake the Crust

    Transfer the parchment‑lined crust circles onto a baking sheet and bake in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 350°F

  4. Cool the Crust

    Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

    Time: PT10M

  5. Press Crust into Pan

    Place a piece of parchment paper at the bottom of a 9‑inch pie pan. Gently press the cooled crust into the bottom, ensuring an even layer.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Strain the Greek Yogurt

    Place the Greek yogurt in a cheesecloth-lined strainer over a bowl and let it drain for several hours or overnight to remove excess whey.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Whip the Heavy Cream

    Using a hand mixer, whip the heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Mix Filling Base

    In a clean bowl combine the strained Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Beat with the mixer until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Fold in Whipped Cream

    Gently fold the whipped cream into the yogurt mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light, airy filling.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Assemble the Cheesecake

    Spread the filling evenly over the pressed oat crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

    Time: PT2M

  11. Chill the Cheesecake

    Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until set.

    Time: PT0M

  12. Prepare Blueberry Sauce (Optional)

    Combine frozen blueberries, water, and ½ tablespoon maple syrup in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: low

  13. Serve

    Remove the cheesecake from the pan, slice into 8 wedges, drizzle with blueberry sauce or fresh fruit, and enjoy.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
189
Protein
9 g
Carbohydrates
14 g
Fat
6 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Low‑sugar, High‑protein, Gluten‑optional

Allergens: Milk, Greek yogurt, Heavy cream, Honey, Oats (contains gluten unless certified gluten‑free)

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Greek Yogurt Cheesecake (no-bake and without gelatin!)

Recipe by How To Cook Smarter

A light, low‑calorie no‑bake cheesecake made with a wholesome oatmeal crust and a tangy Greek‑yogurt filling. Sweetened with honey or maple syrup and topped with a quick blueberry sauce, this dessert is perfect for beginners and can be prepared ahead of time.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
47m
Prep
25m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 22m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$9.84
Total cost
$1.23
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Mixing and forming the oat crust
  • Baking the crust correctly
  • Straining the Greek yogurt to remove excess whey
  • Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks
  • Folding whipped cream into the yogurt mixture without deflating
  • Chilling the assembled cheesecake for proper set

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and baking sheet with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • When simmering the blueberry sauce, watch for splattering and keep the heat low.
  • Use a sharp knife carefully when cutting the crust and slicing the cheesecake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of no‑bake Greek yogurt cheesecake in American dessert cuisine?

A

Cheesecake is a classic American dessert that originated from European cheese‑based cakes. The no‑bake version emerged as a lighter, quicker alternative, and using Greek yogurt reflects a modern health‑focused twist that many American home cooks embrace.

cultural
Q

How does the traditional baked cheesecake differ from this no‑bake Greek yogurt cheesecake in terms of texture and ingredients?

A

Traditional baked cheesecake relies on cream cheese and a water‑bath to create a dense, rich texture. This no‑bake version swaps cream cheese for strained Greek yogurt and uses whipped cream for lightness, resulting in a tangier, lower‑fat slice that still holds its shape after chilling.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of cheesecake exist within the United States, and how does this recipe compare?

A

Regional U.S. cheesecakes include New York‑style dense cream cheese cakes, Chicago’s sour cream‑based versions, and Southern peach or pumpkin cheesecakes. The Greek yogurt version offers a healthier, protein‑rich alternative while keeping the classic creamy feel.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is cheesecake traditionally served in American culture?

A

Cheesecake is a popular choice for birthdays, holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and as a special dessert for dinner parties. Its versatility also makes it a go‑to for pot‑lucks and casual gatherings.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are used in classic American cheesecake versus the substitutes in this recipe?

A

Classic American cheesecake uses cream cheese, granulated sugar, and a graham‑cracker crust. This recipe substitutes strained Greek yogurt for cream cheese, honey or maple syrup for refined sugar, and an oatmeal crust made from rolled oats instead of processed crackers.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with a light Greek yogurt cheesecake?

A

Serve it alongside fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also complements a light fruit salad or a cup of coffee for an elegant dessert pairing.

cultural
Q

How has the trend of low‑fat, high‑protein desserts like this Greek yogurt cheesecake evolved in recent American cooking?

A

In the past decade, health‑conscious consumers have driven chefs to re‑imagine indulgent desserts with protein‑rich dairy like Greek yogurt and reduced sugar. This shift reflects a broader movement toward nutritious comfort foods in American home kitchens.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this no‑bake Greek yogurt cheesecake?

A

Common errors include not draining the Greek yogurt enough, over‑mixing the filling which deflates the whipped cream, and under‑baking the crust so it becomes soggy. Follow the draining step and fold gently for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use whipped heavy cream instead of gelatin to set the cheesecake?

A

Whipped cream adds air and a light texture while providing enough fat to stabilize the filling. Gelatin would create a firmer, more gelatinous mouthfeel, which this recipe intentionally avoids for a softer, mousse‑like consistency.

technical
Q

Can I make the no‑bake Greek yogurt cheesecake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the cheesecake can be assembled and chilled up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator; if you need longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel How To Cook Smarter specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel How To Cook Smarter focuses on practical, time‑saving cooking techniques, healthier recipe adaptations, and step‑by‑step tutorials that make home cooking accessible for beginners and busy cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel How To Cook Smarter's approach to healthy dessert recipes differ from other cooking channels?

A

How To Cook Smarter emphasizes ingredient swaps that cut sugar and fat without sacrificing flavor, often using whole‑food bases like oats and Greek yogurt. The channel also highlights clear visual cues and minimal equipment, setting it apart from channels that rely on complex techniques.

channel

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