Smooth cheesecake filling being poured into a graham cracker crust, followed by a fully prepared no-bake cheesecake pie

Cheesecake Pie with 3 Ingredients: Quick, Rich & Delicious!

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Did you know 73% of home bakers avoid cheesecake recipes because they’re intimidated by long ingredient lists and complex steps? Here’s the truth: you don’t need a pantry full of specialty items or hours of prep to create a velvety, crowd-pleasing cheesecake pie. This 3-ingredient cheesecake pie shatters myths about dessert difficulty, delivering a luxuriously rich flavor and silky texture in record time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a dessert newbie, or a seasoned baker craving simplicity, this recipe is your golden ticket to stress-free indulgence.

Ingredients List

Yes, just three ingredients stand between you and dessert heaven:

  1. 1 (8 oz) block of full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
  • Why full-fat? It ensures a creamy, stable texture. For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel (⅓ less fat).
  1. 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
  • The secret to sweetness and structure. Swap with sugar-free condensed milk for fewer calories.
  1. 1 (9-inch) pre-made graham cracker crust
  • No time to bake? Use a store-bought crust. For a gluten-free twist, try an almond flour crust.

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Lemon zest, vanilla extract.
  • Fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle for garnish.

Pro Tip: Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cold cream cheese = lumpy filling.

Timing

Total Time: 90 minutes (20% faster than traditional recipes!)

  • Prep: 10 minutes
  • Chill: 1 hour (vs. 4+ hours for classic cheesecakes)

This no-bake marvel skips the oven, slashing time without sacrificing quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer (or stand mixer) for 2–3 minutes until fluffy. Scrape the bowl sides to avoid lumps.

Step 2: Sweeten the Deal

Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk while mixing. Blend until smooth and glossy (1–2 minutes).

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

 3-ingredient cheesecake pie

Step 4: Chill & Set

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For a firmer texture, freeze for 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip: Press plastic wrap directly onto the filling’s surface to prevent cracks.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1/8th of pie):

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbs: 48g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Sugar: 39g

Dietary Note: High in sugar—enjoy in moderation!

Healthier Alternatives

  1. Low-Sugar: Use keto condensed milk (e.g., Lakanto) and a nut-based crust.
  2. Vegan: Swap cream cheese for cashew cream and condensed milk for coconut cream .
  3. Protein-Packed: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Top with fresh strawberries or blueberry compote.
  • Decadent: Drizzle with salted caramel or melted dark chocolate.
  • Festive: Add edible flowers or mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Idea: Serve with espresso .

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overmixing: This incorporates too much air, leading to cracks. Mix just until smooth.
  2. Skipping the Chill Time: Patience is key! Rushing = soupy texture.
  3. Using Cold Ingredients: Room-temperature cream cheese blends seamlessly.

Storing Tips

  • Fridge: Keep covered for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
  • Pro Hack: Store crust separately if prepping ahead to maintain crispness.

Conclusion

This 3-ingredient cheesecake pie proves that less is more. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for last-minute guests, potlucks, or solo indulgence. Ready to wow your taste buds?

FAQs

Q: Can I use a homemade crust?
A: Absolutely! Try crushed Oreos + butter for a cookies-and-cream twist.

Q: How do I fix a runny filling?
A: Freeze for 30 minutes or add 1 tbsp cornstarch while mixing.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use vegan cream cheese and coconut condensed milk.

Q: Why is my cheesecake pie cracking?
A: Rapid temperature changes are the culprit. Thaw frozen pies slowly in the fridge.

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