If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that takes barely any effort, you have to try this No Bake Nutella Cheesecake with Banana. It’s incredibly creamy, rich, and layered with flavors that just melt in your mouth. The crisp graham cracker crust is the perfect base for the velvety cream cheese filling, all swirled with Nutella and finished with luscious banana slices on top. And the best part? No oven required! Whether you’re whipping it up for a last-minute gathering or just indulging on a busy weeknight, this cheesecake comes together with minimal fuss and delivers maximum satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Needed: Skip the oven entirely—just mix, chill, and enjoy!
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for when you don’t have much time but want something impressive—prep time is a breeze.
- Heavenly Flavors: Creamy cheesecake, chocolaty Nutella, and fresh banana combine for a dessert that’s impossible to resist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a party or a family treat, everyone will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create this dreamy dessert, many of which are probably already in your kitchen.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Form the base layer and add that irresistible crunch. Tip: crushing your own gives you more control over the texture!
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling just right.
- Unsalted Butter: Holds the crust together and adds rich flavor to every bite.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show, making the filling luscious and tangy. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Gets whipped up to add lightness and fluff to the cheesecake.
- Vanilla: Enhances all the other flavors with a subtle warmth.
- Nutella: The indulgent, chocolate-hazelnut ingredient that takes this cheesecake to another level.
- Bananas: For topping and a fresh, naturally sweet finish. Pick ripe, firm bananas for best slices.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
Feel like mixing things up? Here are a few ways you can make this recipe your own:
- Switch Up the Base: Try chocolate wafer cookies or digestive biscuits for the crust instead of graham crackers.
- Go Nutty: Add a layer of chopped hazelnuts or almonds between the crust and filling for extra crunch.
- Make It Fruity: Layer fresh berries, mango, or kiwi alongside the banana slices for a colorful finish.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and vegan butter to suit dietary needs.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Instead of a single pan, use cupcake tins to make individual servings.
How to Make No Bake Nutella Cheesecake with Banana
Bringing this cheesecake together is a breeze. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press it into the bottom of a 7 to 9-inch springform pan. Use the flat bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down, ensuring it holds together well. Slide the pan into the freezer while you make the filling—this sets the crust quickly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In one bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with a stand mixer (or hand mixer) until it forms thick, fluffy peaks.
Gently fold the whipped cream and vanilla into the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until it’s perfectly blended and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula, making sure it’s even.
Spoon Nutella on top of the filling, and use a butter knife or skewer to swirl it around, creating a marbled effect that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 12 hours, or overnight. If you want clean, easy slices, pop it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes just before slicing.
Step 5: Add the Bananas and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of the pan and release the cheesecake. Top with sliced bananas just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure silky smooth filling.
- Pack the Crust Well: Press down firmly for a sturdy base that won’t crumble when sliced.
- Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush this step—overnight chilling helps everything set for the perfect texture.
- Add Bananas Last Minute: Bananas brown quickly, so slice and arrange them just before you serve.
- Swirl Gently: When swirling in the Nutella, don’t overmix—gentle swoops create beautiful patterns and keep the chocolate distinct.
How to Serve
Serve this cheesecake as the grand finale to a weeknight meal, brunch, or any special celebration. Each slice pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with more Nutella or scatter a few crushed hazelnuts right before serving.
Try serving alongside a simple fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to go all out!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown a bit, so if you’re planning to store, add the banana slices fresh each time you serve.
Freezing
This Nutella cheesecake freezes beautifully without the bananas. Simply wrap slices (or the whole cake) tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add banana slices before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat! Enjoy straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture.
FAQs
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Can I use a different spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, try using another chocolate spread or even peanut butter for a new twist on flavor. Just keep the layer thin so it’s easy to swirl.
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Do I really have to chill for 12 hours?
Yes, chilling is what gives no bake cheesecake its signature set, creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, a minimum of 6 hours might work, but overnight is best for clean slices and the right consistency.
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Can I prepare this cheesecake ahead for an event?
Definitely! Prepare the cheesecake a day in advance and just wait to add the banana slices until just before serving. It actually tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight.
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What if I don’t have a springform pan?
No worries! You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Just lift the whole cheesecake out by the parchment and cut into squares instead of classic wedges.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a dessert that’s easy to make yet tastes like a showstopper—and this No Bake Nutella Cheesecake with Banana is exactly that. With its irresistible blend of creamy, crunchy, fruity, and chocolaty goodness, it’s bound to become your new go-to treat. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give it a try, and let the indulgence begin!
PrintNo Bake Nutella Cheesecake with Banana Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy No Bake Nutella Cheesecake with Banana features a creamy, rich cheesecake filling swirled with Nutella on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with fresh banana slices. No baking required, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup Nutella
- 1–2 bananas, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Pour the mixture into a 7-9 inch springform pan, pressing down firmly with the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even crust. Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling Base: In a large bowl, use a hand-held mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, without lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl or stand mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. Take care not to overwhip.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped cream and vanilla extract into the cream cheese-sugar mixture, mixing carefully until well combined and smooth. Do not overmix to keep the filling light and airy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Remove the chilled crust from the freezer. Pour the cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust, spreading the top evenly with a spatula.
- Add the Nutella Swirl: Warm the Nutella slightly if needed for easier spreading. Spoon dollops of Nutella onto the surface of the cheesecake and use a knife or skewer to swirl Nutella decoratively across the top, covering the surface as desired.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Cover and refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 12 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set fully and develop its rich texture.
- Before Serving: For easier slice removal, place the cheesecake in the freezer for 15-20 minutes prior to serving. Then, carefully release and remove the springform pan.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the cheesecake with fresh banana slices immediately before serving for a delightful finish.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the topping to prevent browning.
- Cheesecake can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before topping with bananas.
- Freeze the crust while making the filling for easier assembly and a firmer base.
- Nutella can be thinned by microwaving for a few seconds to make swirling easier.
- Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator and add fresh bananas just before serving to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 110mg